Cinnamon Bread

Cinnamon Bread

by

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked cinnamon bread filling your home. This homemade cinnamon bread is soft and fluffy. It has a lovely swirl of cinnamon and sugar. You can enjoy this recipe as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. It’s easy to make and tastes great.

Cinnamon Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and fluffy texture – The bread turns out perfectly light and tender.

  • Delicious cinnamon swirl – Every bite is packed with sweet cinnamon goodness.

  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and clear steps make this beginner-friendly.

  • Versatile – Enjoy it plain, toasted, or turned into French toast!

Ingredients List

For the Dough

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Egg Wash

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tablespoon milk

Optional Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

  • Total Time: About 2 hours 55 minutes

  • Servings: 12 slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

  3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour. Mix until a dough forms.

  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon.

  2. Set aside the softened butter to spread onto the dough.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Bread

  1. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 9×18 inches).

  2. Spread the softened butter over the dough.

  3. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

  4. Roll the dough tightly from the short end to form a log.

  5. Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 4: Second Rise and Baking

  1. Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  3. Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash.

  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

  5. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 5: Add the Glaze (Optional)

  1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

  2. Drizzle over the cooled bread before slicing.

Cinnamon Bread

Tips for Making the Perfect Cinnamon Bread

  • Use fresh yeast – If your yeast doesn’t foam in warm milk, it may be expired.

  • Roll tightly – This prevents gaps in the cinnamon swirl.

  • Don’t overbake – Check at 35 minutes to prevent dryness.

  • Let it cool – Cutting too soon can make the bread fall apart.

You Can Try These Different Variations

1. Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Add ½ cup of raisins to the dough for a fruity twist.

2. Cinnamon Nut Bread

Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.

3. Chocolate Cinnamon Bread

Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon filling before rolling.

4. Honey Cinnamon Bread

Swap granulated sugar for honey in the filling for a natural sweetness.

5. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Bread

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Bread

  • Butter or Cream Cheese – Spread on a warm slice for extra richness.

  • Coffee or Tea – A perfect pairing for breakfast.

  • Fresh Fruit – Adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

  • French Toast – Turn leftover slices into an indulgent breakfast treat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

  • Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 3 months.

  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave or toast in a pan for a crispy texture.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)

  • Calories: 210

  • Protein: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fat: 5g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe without yeast?

Yes! You can use 2 teaspoons of baking powder instead, but the texture will be more like a quick bread.

2. How do I store cinnamon bread?

Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze cinnamon bread?

Yes! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the bread denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance.

5. How do I reheat cinnamon bread?

Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them for a crispy texture.

Conclusion

Homemade cinnamon bread is the perfect mix of soft, fluffy texture and sweet cinnamon swirls. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or transformed into French toast, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go and fill your home with the cozy aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread.