There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon swirl bread wafting through the kitchen. The soft, pillowy texture, the cinnamon-sugar ribbon running through each slice – it’s a flavor combination that instantly transports you to your favorite cozy bakery. But what if you could recreate that same bakery magic right in your own home? With this quick and easy cinnamon swirl bread recipe, you can.
Imagine waking up to the tantalizing scent of cinnamon-infused bread, fresh out of the oven, ready to be sliced and slathered with butter or honey. Or picture yourself savoring a warm, toasted slice alongside a steaming mug of coffee or tea. This cinnamon swirl bread is more than just a recipe – it’s a sensory experience that will leave your taste buds utterly delighted.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting to explore the world of homemade breads, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be whipping up bakery-worthy cinnamon swirl loaves in no time. So, let’s dive in and discover the secret to creating the ultimate cinnamon swirl bread right in your own kitchen!
🥖 What Makes This Recipe So Hard to Resist ?
There are a few key factors that make this cinnamon swirl bread recipe truly exceptional. First and foremost, the flavor profile is an absolute delight – a perfect balance of warm, fragrant cinnamon and just the right amount of sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar swirl runs throughout the entire loaf, ensuring that every bite is infused with that irresistible spice.
But it’s not just the flavor that sets this bread apart. The texture is truly the star of the show. Thanks to the careful ratio of ingredients and the specific kneading and proofing techniques, the end result is a soft, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
The bread is sturdy enough to slice cleanly, yet light and airy, creating the perfect vessel for your favorite toppings or to enjoy on its own.
Ingredients
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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- Keto Comforts: 7-Day Meal Plan
- Keto Spreads: Delicious Pairings for Your Keto Breads
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- The Truth About Sugar
The key ingredients that really make this cinnamon swirl bread shine are the all-purpose flour and the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar. The flour provides the structure and texture, while the cinnamon and sugar create the irresistible flavor profile. You can use a high-quality all-purpose flour or even substitute in some bread flour for an even chewier crumb.
As for the cinnamon and sugar, I recommend using a freshly ground cinnamon for maximum aroma and flavor. The granulated sugar helps to balance the warm spice of the cinnamon, creating that signature cinnamon-sugar swirl. And don’t forget the softened butter – it’s the secret ingredient that helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture melt into the dough for a truly decadent result.
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the proofed yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, kneading with your hands or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticking to the sides of the bowl.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll and Fill the Dough: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Roll and Slice the Dough: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or serrated bread knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
- Second Rise: Arrange the cinnamon swirl rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Cover and let rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon swirl rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The internal temperature should read 190°F (88°C) when measured with a digital thermometer.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked cinnamon swirl bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm, with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• First Rise: 60-90 minutes
• Second Rise: 30-45 minutes
• Cooling time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2-2.5 hours
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 2 g
🌱 Diet-Friendly Swaps and Modifications
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a flax or chia “egg” instead of the regular egg.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a delightful spicy twist.
🍴 Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish your freshly baked loaf with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Beverage Pairing: This cinnamon swirl bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a classic and cozy breakfast or snack.
🤔 How to Steer Clear of Common Blunders ?
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the milk and egg, are at room temperature before beginning. This will help the yeast activate properly and ensure a smooth, cohesive dough.
• Mistake 3 – Overfilling the Pan: Resist the urge to squeeze too many cinnamon rolls into the baking dish. Leaving enough space between the rolls will allow them to rise and bake evenly without becoming a sticky, doughy mess.
❄️ From Fridge to Freezer: Storage Made Easy
• Freezing: You can also freeze the baked cinnamon rolls for longer-term storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cinnamon rolls will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 30-60 seconds.
❓ FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
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While all-purpose flour is the standard, you can experiment with other flours to achieve different textures. Substituting up to 1/2 cup of the all-purpose flour with bread flour will result in a chewier, more artisanal crumb. For a lighter, more tender bread, try replacing 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
How can I make the cinnamon-sugar swirl more pronounced?
To intensify the cinnamon-sugar flavor, try increasing the amount of cinnamon in the filling to 3 tablespoons. You can also add a teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and complexity. Just be sure to spread the filling evenly over the dough to ensure a consistent swirl throughout.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! This cinnamon swirl bread dough can be made a day ahead of time. After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a ball, and place it in a greased airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove the dough, let it come to room temperature, and proceed with the remaining steps.
How can I achieve a perfectly golden brown crust?
For an extra-crisp and golden-brown crust, brush the unbaked cinnamon rolls with a beaten egg or melted butter before baking. The egg wash or butter will help the rolls develop a beautifully shiny, caramelized surface. You can also sprinkle a bit of turbinado or demerara sugar over the top for a delightful crunch.
Can I make mini cinnamon swirl rolls with this recipe?
Absolutely! To create mini cinnamon rolls, simply slice the rolled dough into smaller, 1/2-inch thick pieces before arranging them in the baking dish. Adjust the baking time down to 18-22 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent overbaking. The mini size is perfect for serving as a party snack or breakfast treat.
🍞 Ready to Create Something Amazing?
With this quick and easy cinnamon swirl bread recipe, you’re just a few simple steps away from filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm, freshly baked cinnamon-sugar goodness. Whether you serve it as a decadent breakfast, a comforting afternoon snack, or even a special dessert, this homemade cinnamon swirl bread is sure to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create something truly amazing. Trust me, your family and friends won’t be able to resist the temptation of this heavenly cinnamon swirl bread.
Enjoy every last crumb!
Quick, Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the proofed yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, kneading with your hands or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticking to the sides of the bowl.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or serrated bread knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
- Arrange the cinnamon swirl rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Cover and let rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon swirl rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The internal temperature should read 190°F (88°C) when measured with a digital thermometer.
- Allow the baked cinnamon swirl bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm, with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.
