Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful treat that combines the soft, fluffy texture of homemade bread with a rich, buttery cinnamon sugar swirl. This bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Its aromatic, sweet flavor and beautiful swirl pattern make it a favorite for both kids and adults.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love Cinnamon Swirl Bread for its perfect blend of soft, tender bread and the sweet, spiced flavor of cinnamon. The bread is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own, toasted with butter, or used to make French toast. It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked bread filling your kitchen is simply irresistible.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
- Proper kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- Roll tightly: Roll the dough tightly with the cinnamon sugar filling to create a defined swirl and prevent gaps.
- Avoid overbaking: Bake the bread until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom to avoid drying it out.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Add raisins: Sprinkle raisins over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling up the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Vegan option: Replace the butter with vegan margarine, milk with almond milk, and eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Different spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra warmth.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bread warm or at room temperature, sliced and spread with butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. For an indulgent breakfast, use it to make French toast or bread pudding. This bread also makes a fantastic addition to any brunch spread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Room temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week to extend its freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Toast individual slices in a toaster or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled to make two loaves.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, bread flour can be used and will result in a slightly chewier texture.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out? Roll the dough tightly and pinch the seams and ends well to seal in the filling.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Yield: 12 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
A delightful treat that will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and sugar.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one short end, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan, cover it, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy the warm, fragrant Cinnamon Swirl Bread.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 185Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 90mgCarbohydrates: 38gFiber: 2gSugar: 13gProtein: 4g