Cinnamon Swirl Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that transcends the simple act of baking. This delightful bread fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that can make any day feel cozier.
Why We Love This Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
Cinnamon Swirl Bread has a special kind of charm. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread, the warm notes of cinnamon wrapping around you like a blanket of comfort. It’s the ideal companion for a cozy breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be able to create a loaf that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The combination of vanilla and cinnamon adds an aromatic touch, while the brown sugar filling offers a delightful contrast to the bread’s tenderness.
Whether you choose to enjoy a slice plain or topped with a drizzle of glaze, this Cinnamon Swirl Bread invites endless possibilities for customization. It’s versatile enough to complement your morning coffee or serve as the perfect dessert. You’ll find that once you start, it’s hard to resist making more!
Ingredients about Cinnamon Swirl Bread
To make your own Cinnamon Swirl Bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
These ingredients are readily available and are often staples that you might already have at home. No need for complex items—just the basics that come together to create a truly enchanting loaf.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread Directions
Getting started with your Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a simple process. First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F. Once that’s done, take a 9 x 5-inch bread pan, and grease it lightly. Don’t forget to sprinkle some flour in the pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This will create your dry mixture and lay the groundwork for your flavorful bread.
In a larger bowl, combine your milk and lemon juice. Let it stand for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as the lemon juice will help curdle the milk slightly, creating a makeshift buttermilk that contributes to the bread’s moistness. After the waiting period, add in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the eggs. Give this a good whisk until everything is combined well.
Now, it’s time to bring the dry ingredients into the mix. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
In another small bowl, combine the brown sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons of cinnamon, and melted butter. This will create a sweet cinnamon filling that makes the bread irresistible.
Next, pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Carefully create three lines with the cinnamon mixture running the length of the pan. Using a skewer or toothpick, swirl this mixture gently into the batter without overmixing.
Pour the remaining batter on top and repeat the process of swirling the cinnamon mixture again. Once done, place the pan in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once your bread is baking and filling your home with delightful aromas, you will want to let it cool for at least 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Invert it gently onto a cooling rack to avoid breaking the loaf. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, mix some powdered sugar with milk to create a simple glaze you can drizzle on top after the bread cools.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Serving your Cinnamon Swirl Bread is all about sharing the joy of your creation. You can slice it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. It works beautifully as a standalone treat, but it can also be enhanced with a few toppings.
Consider spreading a layer of butter over a warm slice. The melting butter combined with the sweet cinnamon creates a perfectly comforting bite. If you enjoy a little sweetness, a drizzle of the previously mentioned glaze will elevate your bread to a whole new level.
Additionally, this bread pairs excellently with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast spread or brunch gathering. You can present it on a beautiful platter, cut into slices, which makes it easy for everyone to grab a piece and enjoy.
Another fun option is to serve it alongside fresh fruits such as berries or banana slices. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also turns your dish into a more visually appealing, healthy option.
Expert Tips: Cinnamon Swirl Bread
When making your Cinnamon Swirl Bread, here are some expert tips to ensure the best results.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a more tender loaf.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, while careful mixing ensures a light and fluffy texture.
Swirling Technique: When you add the cinnamon mixture, don’t overdo it. A light swirl will create beautiful ribbons that look and taste amazing, while excessive mixing will blend the flavors too thoroughly.
Oven Safety: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly. If it does, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the insides finish cooking.
Cooling: Allow the bread to cool sufficiently in the pan and then on the rack. This helps set the structure and makes for cleaner slices.
How to Store Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Once your Cinnamon Swirl Bread is baked and cool, storing it properly helps retain its lovely texture and flavor. To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for several days.
For longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice the bread first, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw a slice or two whenever a craving strikes without having to defrost the whole loaf.
To thaw, simply take the slices out of the freezer and allow them to sit at room temperature for a bit. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—just be cautious not to overheat them.
Variation of Cinnamon Swirl Bread
While the classic Cinnamon Swirl Bread is delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with variations. Here are some ideas you might like:
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into your cinnamon filling for a delightful crunch.
Fruit Infusion: Add some dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, into the batter before baking. This gives an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Cocoa Delight: For an entirely different kind of sweetness, try mixing cocoa powder with sugar for a chocolate swirl along with your cinnamon.
Cream Cheese Layer: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixed with some sugar on the batter before swirling your cinnamon mixture. This creates a tangy and creamy contrast.
Glazed Coconut Topping: After baking, sprinkle some shredded coconut over the top while the glaze is still wet for a tropical twist.
The possibilities are virtually endless, allowing you to customize this recipe to fit your taste preferences.
FAQ about Cinnamon Swirl Bread
What is Cinnamon Swirl Bread?
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful sweet bread that features a cinnamon and sugar filling swirled throughout its soft, fluffy interior. This bread is great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
How do I store Cinnamon Swirl Bread?
Store your Cinnamon Swirl Bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices.
Can I make Cinnamon Swirl Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread and bake it the night before or even freeze it for later. Just make sure to wrap it properly.
Why is my Cinnamon Swirl Bread dense?
A dense loaf may result from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Be gentle when mixing and ensure everything is at room temperature for the best texture.
Can I add nuts to the Cinnamon Swirl Bread?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter or filling can provide an enjoyable crunch and extra flavor.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Equipment
- 9 x 5-inch Loaf Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- 1 Tbsp. cinnamon
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 6 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 1½ Tbsp. cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp. melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a larger bowl, combine milk and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.
- Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs to the milk mixture, whisking until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create the cinnamon filling.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add lines of the cinnamon filling and swirl gently with a skewer or toothpick.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and repeat the swirling process with the remaining cinnamon filling.
- Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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