Cinnamon Bread

Cinnamon Bread is a soft and fluffy loaf swirled with a sweet and aromatic cinnamon-sugar filling. This homemade bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or as a delightful addition to brunch. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or transformed into French toast, this classic cinnamon bread offers a warm and comforting flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy: The bread is tender with a beautiful swirl of cinnamon.
• Perfect for breakfast: Ideal for toast, French toast, or just on its own.
• Sweet and aromatic: The cinnamon-sugar filling makes every slice special.
• Great for beginners: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

5. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Shape the Bread

6. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 9×15 inches.
7. Add the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
8. Roll the Dough: Starting from the short end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal and place the roll seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Second Rise and Bake

9. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for 30-45 minutes until it has risen slightly above the edges of the pan.
10. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Bake: Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
12. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Optional Glaze

13. Make the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Serve

14. Slice and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. Delicious on its own or with a spread of butter!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Additional Time: 2-3 hours (rising)
• Total Time: 3-4 hours

Variations

• Raisin Cinnamon Bread: Add ½ cup of raisins to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Nutty Option: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling.
• Cinnamon Swirl Rolls: Instead of a loaf, slice the rolled dough into cinnamon rolls and bake in a baking dish.
• Healthier Twist: Use half whole wheat flour for a fiber-rich option.
• Cinnamon Apple Bread: Add finely diced apples to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze slices or the whole loaf tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the activation step and add it directly to the flour.

How do I keep the bread soft and moist?

Store it in an airtight container to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes for a dairy-free version.

What if my bread doesn’t rise?

Ensure your yeast is not expired, and the milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour will give the bread a slightly chewier texture.

How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from separating?

Roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam firmly to help keep the layers together.

Can I add a cinnamon-sugar topping to the bread?

Yes, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking.

How do I make French toast with this bread?

Slice the bread thickly, dip in an egg-milk mixture, and cook in a buttered skillet until golden on both sides.

Can I use this recipe to make mini loaves?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller loaf pans and reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes.

Is this bread good for sandwiches?

This bread is best for sweet applications like French toast or as a breakfast bread, but you can make creative sandwiches with it!

Conclusion

Cinnamon Bread is a cozy and delicious homemade treat that fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. With its soft and fluffy texture and rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, this bread is perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or a delightful addition to brunch. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this cinnamon bread will quickly become a family favorite. Try this recipe and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade bread with a sweet, spiced twist!

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