Cinnamon Swirl Bread
A Sweet and Spicy Delight that Will Fill Your Home with Comfort
Imagine walking into a kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread, lightly hinting at sweet cinnamon and brown sugar. That’s the magic of Cinnamon Swirl Bread! This delightful recipe not only fills your home with warmth but also wraps you in cozy memories with each bite. A great companion to a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of milk, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Did you know that cinnamon has been prized for thousands of years, and it’s believed to have various health benefits? From its rich history in ancient spicing trade to its role in modern comfort food, cinnamon always brings a smile to our faces. Just like our beloved Banana Bread, Cinnamon Swirl Bread is simple to make and bursting with flavor, making it a family-favorite treat. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in the warm, sugary goodness that is Cinnamon Swirl Bread!
What is Cinnamon Swirl Bread?
Ah, Cinnamon Swirl Bread! The very name evokes visions of fluffy, soft bread swirled together with cinnamon sugar goodness. But why call it "swirl"? Does it dance a roundabout in the oven? Not quite! The name comes from the beautiful spiral pattern that emerges when you slice into the baked loaf, revealing the inner masterpiece of sweet cinnamon filling. The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? So, whether you’re trying to win someone over or just treating yourself, this bread does the trick! Why not grab your apron and give this charming recipe a try? You’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Bread:
This cinnamon-laced loaf isn’t just a sight for sore eyes; it’s an experience for the taste buds! Here are three big reasons to love this recipe:
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Warm and Comforting: The highlight of this dish is its warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor from the cinnamon, creating a cozy atmosphere in any setting. That first freshly baked slice, still a bit warm, is a classic moment we cherish.
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Cost-Effective and Simple: Making this Cinnamon Swirl Bread at home saves you money compared to store-bought versions while providing the added love and care that only home-baked treats can deliver. It’s a delicious way to keep your bank account happy!
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Versatile and Customizable: Enjoy it plain or elevate it with scrumptious toppings, such as a drizzle of icing, toasted nuts, or pieces of caramelized apples. Alongside Baked French Toast, it creates a delightful breakfast spread worth waking up for!
Ready to roll your sleeves up and embrace sweetness? Let’s transform your kitchen into a bakery with this easy-to-follow recipe.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread:
Quick Overview
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a fantastic, simple recipe that takes just about 2 hours from start to finish. With its soft texture and warm spice profile, this bread is sure to please. You won’t believe how easy it is to create a bakery-quality loaf in your own kitchen!
Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Bread:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Here’s a lovely visual of the ingredients you’ll need to gather:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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Mix Ingredients: To the mixture, add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
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Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Form into a ball.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together.
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Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×15 inches in size. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
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Roll and Tuck: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the ends to seal.
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Second Rise: Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
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Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bread With:
Cinnamon Swirl Bread shines on its own, but pairing it with a few complementary items can enhance the experience! Consider serving it with:
- Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of sweet cream cheese spread takes it to the next level.
- Hot Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with your favorite brewed beverage for a cozy treat.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair it with colorful berries or sliced bananas for a fresh finish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cinnamon Swirl Bread:
- Using Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise and texture.
- Customize the Swirl: Get creative! Add chocolate chips or nuts to the cinnamon filling for added texture.
- Watch the Baking: Oven temperatures can vary; keep an eye on your bread towards the end to ensure it doesn’t over-bake.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature, or toast slices for a delicious warm treat!
Now that you know all the ins and outs of making this Cinnamon Swirl Bread, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the sweet journey!
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- To the mixture, add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Form into a ball.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×15 inches in size. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
- Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the ends to seal.
- Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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