Indulge in the comforting aroma and delightful taste of homemade Cinnamon Bread. This recipe combines the simplicity of bread baking with the rich, sweet flavors of cinnamon swirls, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. Follow along to learn how to create this irresistible loaf in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Canola Oil
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup White Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until evenly mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the white sugar and eggs together until smooth and creamy. Add in the whole milk, canola oil, and pure vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
- Prepare Cinnamon Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the white sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl.
- Layer Batter: Pour half of the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the cinnamon sugar layer.
- Repeat Layers: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer, spreading it gently with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top, followed by the remaining melted butter.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
- Bake: Place the filled loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cinnamon bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Notes
- Swirling Technique: Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar layers into the batter for a marbled effect throughout the bread.
- Storage: Store leftover cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze, thawing slices as needed.
Variations
- Raisins or Nuts: Add raisins or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid ingredients as needed for the desired consistency.
2. How can I prevent the cinnamon bread from becoming too dry?
Ensure not to overbake the bread. Test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter in the cinnamon swirl?
Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter in the cinnamon swirl. Choose a margarine that is suitable for baking.
4. Is it necessary to let the bread cool before slicing?
Allowing the bread to cool completely helps it firm up and makes slicing easier, preventing it from crumbling.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade Cinnamon Bread with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether served fresh from the oven with a pat of butter or toasted for breakfast, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Share your baking experience and any unique twists you try in the comments below!
Stay tuned for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration. Happy baking!