If you’re looking for a comforting, richly flavored treat that fills your home with the warm, inviting scent of spices, this Cinnamon Bread Recipe is absolutely the answer. This bread is a perfect balance of soft, fluffy texture with a sweet cinnamon swirl running through every slice, making it ideal for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. The touch of cinnamon paired with the hint of vanilla glaze makes every bite feel cozy and indulgent—trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, and aroma of the final loaf. From the soft, tender crumb crafted by the warm milk and butter to the aromatic swirl of cinnamon sugar, every component plays a key role in making this bread irresistibly delicious.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right bit of sweetness to the dough itself.
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet): The essential leavening agent that makes the bread rise light and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and creates a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moistness to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Contributes to the structure and a lovely golden color.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Mixed with cinnamon for the signature swirl’s deep, molasses sweetness.
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses every bite with warmth and aroma.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Acts as the ‘glue’ for the cinnamon sugar filling and adds richness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze, adding a sweet finishing touch.
- 2 tbsp milk: Creates a smooth, drizzle-able glaze texture.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts sweetness and adds lovely aromatic depth to the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mixture forms the bread’s base. Then add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the bowl and stir until a soft dough begins to form. The warmth of the milk wakes up the yeast, ensuring a good rise.
Step 2: Knead Until Smooth
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until silky and elastic. Alternatively, if you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook and knead for about 5 to 6 minutes. This kneading develops the gluten, which gives your bread the perfect chewy texture you want in a cinnamon loaf.
Step 3: First Rise
Grease a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it. Leave the bowl in a warm spot to rise for about an hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This initial rise is critical as it helps develop the bread’s fluffy, airy structure.
Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Filling and Prep Pan
While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will provide that signature sweet and spicy swirl. Don’t forget to grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan, so your bread bakes up with a golden crust and comes out easily after baking.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 9×15-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface—this layer helps the cinnamon sugar stick and creates a luscious filling. Then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf
Tightly roll the dough log from one of the short ends, sealing the seam by pinching it closed. This rolling creates the beautiful cinnamon spiral once baked. Place the dough seam-side down inside the prepared loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. This second rise will ensure the bread bakes light and fluffy.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s a heavenly golden brown color and sounds hollow when gently tapped on the bottom. This baking step locks in the flavors and gives you that perfect crust wrapped around the soft cinnamon swirl.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you love a little extra sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bread for a shiny, sweet finish that makes each slice even more irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar on top right after glazing adds a delightful crunch and enhances its visual appeal. For an extra touch, a few chopped nuts or a smear of creamy butter can elevate a simple slice into a special treat.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, creamy chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a smear of cream cheese to complement its sweetness and boost the flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your cinnamon bread into an elegant French toast for breakfast by soaking slices in an egg batter and pan-frying until golden brown. Alternatively, slice it thinly and toast it lightly to enjoy as a crunchy snack or serve it with ice cream for a warm dessert option—cinnamon bread is wonderfully versatile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Cinnamon Bread Recipe, keep them fresh by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay soft and delicious for up to three days, perfect for quick snacks or to grab on your busy mornings.
Freezing
This cinnamon bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When properly stored, it will keep well for up to three months, so you can bake ahead and enjoy its comforting flavor whenever you like.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread after storing or freezing, reheat slices in a toaster or oven until warm and slightly crisp outside but still soft inside. If you’ve frozen the entire loaf, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freshly warmed cinnamon bread tastes just as heavenly as when freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Absolutely! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Keep in mind, the bread might be slightly denser and require a bit more moisture, so watch your dough consistency carefully.
What is the best type of cinnamon to use?
Ceylon cinnamon is often preferred for its delicate and sweet flavor, but ground cassia cinnamon also works well and is the more common variety in most kitchens. Either will give you that wonderful warm note your Cinnamon Bread Recipe needs.
Can I make the dough in a bread machine?
Yes, many bread machines have a dough setting that works perfectly for this recipe. Just add the ingredients in the order recommended by your machine, let it complete the cycle, then proceed with the rising, filling, and baking steps as directed.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread should be a deep golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap the bottom of the loaf. Using a thermometer to check for an interior temperature of around 190°F (88°C) is another great way to ensure it’s perfectly baked through.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for yeast baking, but results may vary as gluten provides structure and elasticity. Consider adding a binding agent like xanthan gum and be prepared for a slightly different texture compared to the classic version.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about pulling a warm loaf of cinnamon bread fresh from the oven, and this Cinnamon Bread Recipe is your ticket to that experience. It’s approachable, deeply flavorful, and flexible enough for so many occasions. I genuinely hope you give it a try and share the joy it brings with your loved ones—happy baking!
Print
Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade cinnamon bread recipe features a soft, fluffy dough swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with an optional vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this bread combines classic flavors with an inviting aroma, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Glaze (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Dough: Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Assemble the Bread: Roll the risen dough out on a floured surface into a 9×15-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the butter, leaving a one-inch border along the edges.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from a short end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it completely.
- Second Rise: Place the rolled dough seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add Glaze (Optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm (110°F/45°C) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour while kneading, but avoid over-flouring to keep the bread soft.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area helps achieve a good rise.
- The cinnamon filling can be customized with nuts or raisins if desired.
- For a shiny crust, you can brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
- The glaze is optional but adds a nice sweetness and finish to the bread.
