Is there anything better than the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread filling your kitchen? This easy cinnamon bread recipe is a delightful treat that will make your mornings and snacks extra special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and foolproof.
Easy Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
As a grandmother who’s been baking for decades, I’ve tried countless cinnamon bread recipes. But it wasn’t until a chilly autumn morning, when my grandchildren were visiting, that I stumbled upon this perfect version. The house was filled with laughter and the sweet scent of cinnamon as we kneaded the dough together.
Their little hands eagerly helped sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating swirls of sweetness. When we finally pulled the golden loaf from the oven, the anticipation was palpable. That first warm, gooey bite became an instant family tradition, one we now recreate every fall.
Now, let’s dive into this beloved cinnamon swirl bread recipe that combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a loaf that’s soft, moist, and full of sweet cinnamon flavor. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a holiday treat, this bread will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Cinnamon swirl bread features a tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl throughout. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack and can be customized to suit different dietary needs. Enjoy it plain, with a smear of butter, or topped with a sweet glaze.
This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend baking. With minimal prep time and common pantry ingredients, you can whip up a loaf of moist cinnamon bread without hassle.
PrintHomemade Cinnamon Bread Recipe
This easy and delicious Cinnamon Bread recipe features a soft, moist texture with a delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl throughout. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch, this homemade bread is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit various dietary needs. Enjoy it plain, with a pat of butter, or topped with a sweet glaze for an extra special treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (for gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk (substitute with almond milk for a vegan option)
- 2 large eggs (substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the cinnamon swirl)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1 cup white sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until well combined.
- Create the batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
- Layer the batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer, then sprinkle the top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
This cinnamon bread recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it for , as a snack, or as a festive holiday treat, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking.
Cinnamon Bread Recipe Tips and Guides
Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a vegan version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk and eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Flavor Variations:
- Add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
- Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness.
- Mix a small amount of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for a more complex spice flavor.
Topping Options:
- For a richer flavor, drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the cooled bread. Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a bit of milk until smooth.
- A simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a few teaspoons of milk and vanilla extract) works well too.
- Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and coarse sugar on top of the batter before baking for a sweet, crunchy crust.
Storage Tips:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a delightful breakfast or snack.
- Toast slices and spread with peanut butter or nutella for a quick and satisfying treat.
Baking Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and even baking.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients to prevent a dense texture.
- If using a dark or nonstick loaf pan, consider reducing the oven temperature by 25°F (4°C) to avoid over-browning.
Troubleshooting:
- If the bread is too dense, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Expired leavening agents can affect the rise.
- If the center is undercooked while the top is browned, tent the bread with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
- If the bread sticks to the pan, make sure to thoroughly grease and flour the loaf pan before adding the batter.
Customization:
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon-sugar swirl according to your taste preference.
- For a lower-sugar version, reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and swirl mixture.
Equipment Alternatives:
If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can use a muffin tin or cake pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly—muffins will bake in about 20-25 minutes, while a cake pan might take a bit less time than a loaf pan.
Making Ahead:
- The batter can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
- The baked bread can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Dietary Notes:
This recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options as mentioned in the ingredient substitutions.
Seasonal Variations:
- During the holidays, add a pinch of ginger and cloves for a festive twist.
- In the summer, incorporate fresh berries into the batter for a fruity variation.
- These notes should help you customize and perfect your cinnamon bread recipe, ensuring delicious results every time!