Homemade Cinnamon Bread

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Cinnamon Bread is a soft, sweet bread with a beautiful swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout. The aroma that fills your kitchen while this bread bakes is simply irresistible. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Toast it with a little butter, serve it with cream cheese, or simply enjoy a slice on its own. This recipe yields a wonderfully fluffy loaf that’s full of warm, cozy flavors.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Topping (Optional):

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar mixed with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or mix by hand.
• Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead using a stand mixer for 4-5 minutes on medium speed.
• First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
• Melt the 3 tablespoons of butter and set aside.

3. Shape the Dough

• Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 9×18 inches.
• Add the Filling: Brush the melted butter over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the short end, roll the dough up tightly to form a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

4. Second Rise

• Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Bake

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Egg Wash and Topping: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg for a shiny crust. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top, if desired.
• Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

6. Cool and Serve

• Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Notes

• Rolling the Dough: Be sure to roll the dough tightly to create a well-defined swirl. This also helps prevent gaps in the bread.
• Rising Time: Rising time can vary based on room temperature. If your kitchen is cool, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to help the dough rise.
• Milk Temperature: Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, as hot milk can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising.

Variations

• Raisin Cinnamon Bread: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dried cranberries over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling up the dough.
• Nutty Cinnamon Bread: Add 1/3 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for added crunch and flavor.
• Iced Cinnamon Bread: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for a sweeter treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and proceed with shaping, filling, and baking.

How do I store cinnamon bread?

Store the cooled cinnamon bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 2 months.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, if using instant yeast, you can skip the step of proofing the yeast in warm milk. Just add the yeast directly to the dry ingredients, and proceed with the recipe.

How do I reheat leftover cinnamon bread?

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

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the bread may be denser and less fluffy.

Cinnamon Bread is a wonderful homemade treat that’s sweet, fragrant, and full of comfort. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this bread offers a warm cinnamon swirl in every bite. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Try this easy cinnamon bread recipe, and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness. It’s sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your day!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!