Description
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a soft, fluffy bread with a rich, sweet swirl of cinnamon sugar baked into every slice. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this homemade bread is a delightful treat served plain, toasted, or with a smear of butter. Its irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth and coziness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk (warm, about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon milk or melted butter (optional, for brushing before baking)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Assemble the Bread:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 9×18 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly from the short side to form a log. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under.
- Second Rise:
- Place the rolled dough seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover loosely and let it rise again for about 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with milk or melted butter if desired.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Pair it with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam for a delicious treat.
Notes
- If desired, you can add raisins or chopped nuts to the cinnamon filling for added texture.
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot when activating the yeast to avoid killing it.
- For a sweeter touch, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American