Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a soft, fluffy loaf with a beautiful cinnamon sugar swirl in every slice. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a comforting dessert, it’s a simple recipe that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

• Perfectly Soft and Sweet: This bread is lightly sweet with just the right amount of cinnamon.
• Versatile: Great on its own, toasted with butter, or made into French toast.
• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker to make this delicious loaf!

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl: For combining the dough ingredients.
• Rolling pin: To roll the dough flat for the cinnamon swirl.
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch): For baking the bread.
• Pastry brush: To apply melted butter.

How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
2. Roll the risen dough into a rectangle about 9×18 inches. Brush the dough with the melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

1. Starting from the short end, roll up the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam closed to seal it.
2. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly over the edge of the pan.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature. Cinnamon swirl bread is delicious on its own or toasted with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It also makes incredible French toast!

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Swirl Bread

• Use Instant Yeast for Simplicity: Instant yeast doesn’t need to be activated in water first, saving time.
• Roll Tightly: Rolling the dough tightly helps create a distinct swirl.
• Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause gaps or make the loaf difficult to slice.

Storage Instructions

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use active dry yeast?
A: Yes, but activate it in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar for 5 minutes before adding it to the flour.

Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Substitute plant-based milk and butter for the milk and butter in the recipe.

Q3: How can I make the swirl more pronounced?
A: Brush the dough with a bit of milk or egg wash before adding the cinnamon sugar. This helps the cinnamon filling stick, creating a darker swirl.

Conclusion: The Perfect Cozy Treat!

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a cozy, sweet treat that’s sure to brighten your day. The soft, fluffy texture and delightful cinnamon aroma make it a must-try! Give it a go and enjoy every warm, spiced slice.

Happy baking!