Cinnamon Bread Recipe: Bake the Best Sweet Loaf Today

Introduction

What Makes Cinnamon Bread So Special?

If you’re searching for the ultimate cinnamon bread recipe, this is it! Cinnamon bread is a delightful treat that bridges the gap between breakfast and dessert. With its swirls of sweet cinnamon filling, soft texture, and irresistible aroma, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm with butter, paired with coffee, or enjoyed as a midday snack, this homemade bread is a surefire way to bring comfort and joy to your kitchen.

Part 2: Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Bread

To craft the perfect cinnamon bread, you need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-Purpose Flour (3 ½ cups): Provides structure and stability to the bread. For a softer texture, you can substitute with bread flour.
Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness to the dough.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the bread and balances the sweetness.
Warm Milk (1 cup): Activates the yeast and makes the bread soft and tender.
Butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Infuses the bread with richness.
Eggs (2, room temperature): Adds moisture and structure to the dough.
Active Dry Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Helps the dough rise for a light, fluffy texture.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

Brown Sugar (⅓ cup): Gives the filling a caramel-like sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon (2 tablespoons): The star ingredient that adds a warm, spicy flavor.
Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Helps the sugar-cinnamon mixture adhere to the dough.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some ways to personalize the recipe:

For a Healthier Option:
- Use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey.
Add Extra Flavor:
- Include vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg in the dough.
- Mix in raisins, chopped pecans, or walnuts with the cinnamon filling for texture.
Make It Dairy-Free:
- Substitute milk with almond milk or oat milk.
- Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

How to Prepare Cinnamon Bread Dough

Mastering the dough is the first step toward creating your perfect cinnamon bread. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a soft and pliable dough that’s perfect for rolling and baking.

Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). Ensure it’s warm but not hot, as high heat can kill the yeast.
Add the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar to the milk. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and melted butter together.
Gradually add the yeast mixture and egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
Knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for 5–7 minutes.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Tips for Perfect Dough Texture

Humidity and Temperature Control: If your kitchen is cold, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) for 5 minutes, then turn it off. Place the bowl inside the oven with the door slightly ajar for a warm, draft-free environment.
Avoid Over-Flouring: Add flour gradually during kneading to avoid making the dough too dry.
Check for Elasticity: Press your finger lightly into the dough; if it bounces back, it’s ready.

Part 4: Cinnamon Filling and Shaping the Bread

Mixing the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Filling

The cinnamon-sugar filling is the highlight of this bread, creating its iconic swirls and sweet aroma. Here’s how to prepare and apply it:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Add the softened butter to the mixture and mash it together with a fork until it forms a spreadable paste.

Rolling and Filling the Dough

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

After the first rise, punch down the dough to release excess air.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 18 inches long and 9 inches wide. The thinner you roll, the more prominent your cinnamon swirls will be.

Step 3: Spread the Filling

Evenly spread the prepared cinnamon-sugar filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides to seal the loaf.
Optional: Sprinkle raisins, chopped pecans, or walnuts on top of the filling for added flavor and texture.

Shaping the Dough

Step 4: Roll the Dough

Starting from the shorter side, tightly roll the dough into a log, ensuring no gaps are left.
Pinch the seam along the edge to seal the roll completely.

Create the Swirls

If you want a simple loaf, place the rolled dough seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.
For a more intricate look, cut the rolled dough lengthwise into two halves. Twist the halves around each other, keeping the cut sides facing up, and place it in the pan.

Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes until it puffs up.

Tips for Success

Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the layers to separate while baking.
Use a Pastry Brush: If the filling is too thick to spread easily, soften it further or use a brush for even application.
For Neater Edges: Trim the uneven sides of the dough before rolling.

Part 5: Baking and Serving the Cinnamon Bread

Baking the Cinnamon Bread

Once your bread is shaped and risen, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. Follow these steps to ensure your bread turns out soft, flavorful, and beautifully swirled.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Position the rack in the center of the oven to allow for even baking.

Apply the Egg Wash

Beat one egg with a tablespoon of milk or water to create an egg wash.
Brush the surface of the dough lightly with the egg wash for a glossy finish and a golden crust.

Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

Cool the Bread

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step ensures the cinnamon filling sets properly and prevents crumbling.

Serving Ideas

Once cooled, your cinnamon bread is ready to serve. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:

Classic Butter Spread: Serve a warm slice with a generous spread of butter.
French Toast: Transform day-old cinnamon bread into decadent French toast by soaking slices in a milk-and-egg mixture and frying until golden.
Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Cube the bread and bake it with a custard mixture for a comforting dessert.
Coffee Companion: Pair a slice with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your cinnamon bread fresh:

Room Temperature Storage: Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Extend freshness to 5–7 days by refrigerating it, but bring it to room temperature before serving to restore softness.
Freezing: Slice the bread, wrap individual slices in plastic, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast them straight from the freezer.

Part 6: FAQs and Conclusion

FAQs About Cinnamon Bread Recipe

What makes this Cinnamon Bread Recipe unique?
This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect balance between a fluffy dough and a rich, aromatic cinnamon swirl.
How can I personalize this Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Add raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of flavor
Add raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of fl
Can I use pre-made dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought dough to save time. Just roll it out, add the cinnamon filling, and follow the same shaping and baking instructions.
How do I prevent my cinnamon bread from being dry?
Make sure to measure your flour correctly and avoid over-baking. Adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk to the dough can help maintain moisture.
What’s the best way to achieve a pronounced swirl?
Roll the dough tightly and evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling. Cutting and twisting the dough before placing it in the pan also enhances the swirl effect.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your yeast and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Conclusion: Why This Cinnamon Bread Recipe Will Be Your Favorite

Cinnamon bread is a timeless recipe that brings warmth, sweetness, and versatility to your table. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or as the base for creative recipes, its rich cinnamon flavor makes every bite memorable. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this bread is perfect for any occasion—from breakfast to dessert.

Explore related recipes like cinnamon chips for unique toppings, or try sourdough cinnamon rolls for a tangy twist on the classic cinnamon flavor. Let your baking journey continue with this delicious loaf as your starting point!

Baking this bread is not just about the end product; it’s about the journey—kneading the dough, smelling the spices as they bake, and savoring the warm, sweet slices with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.