Cinnamon Bread

Cinnamon bread always takes me back to quiet mornings when I want to fill the kitchen with that warm, sweet aroma that makes everyone wander in to see what’s baking because there’s something so comforting about the smell of cinnamon swirling through the air. I remember the first time I sliced into my own homemade loaf and saw that beautiful spiral inside — it felt like such a little victory and I couldn’t wait to share a slice with a pat of butter and a hot cup of coffee.

Now, whenever I want to treat my family or just make an ordinary day feel cozy, I turn to this recipe because it’s simple but always feels special. I love how the tender, fluffy bread wraps around that sweet cinnamon-sugar layer and every bite has just the right balance of softness and spice. Sharing this bread makes me feel like I’m offering a warm hug in the form of a slice.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• All-purpose flour – Gives the bread its light, tender structure.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dough and the cinnamon swirl.
• Active dry yeast – Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Milk – Adds richness and softness to the dough.
• Butter – Brings a buttery taste and keeps the crumb tender.
• Egg – Adds structure and extra richness.
• Ground cinnamon – The star of the swirl, warm and aromatic.
• Brown sugar – Sweetens and deepens the cinnamon filling.
• Extra butter – To brush on the dough before adding the cinnamon swirl.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – To prepare and combine the dough ingredients.
• Whisk – For blending dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
• Dough hook or your hands – For kneading the dough until soft and elastic.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the dough before adding the swirl.
• Loaf pan – Perfect for shaping and baking the bread.
• Pastry brush – For brushing butter on the dough and crust.
• Cooling rack – To let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Instructions

Step 1

I warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm, then mix in the sugar and yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour and salt. Then I add the milk mixture, melted butter, and egg, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3

I knead the dough on a lightly floured surface (or using a stand mixer with a dough hook) for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

I transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5

Meanwhile, I prepare the cinnamon filling by mixing brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 6

After the first rise, I punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 7

I brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface.

Step 8

I roll the dough up tightly into a log and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.

Step 9

I cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.

Step 10

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake the bread for about 35 to 40 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 11

I let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Then I slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

For an extra glossy top, I sometimes brush the loaf with melted butter or a light sugar glaze after baking. You can also add chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon filling for extra texture. Leftovers make amazing French toast or sweet breakfast sandwiches.

Ways to Serve

I love serving cinnamon bread slightly warm with a little butter or cream cheese. It’s also fantastic toasted and drizzled with honey or used to make a cozy bread pudding. You can even gift a loaf to friends or neighbors for a sweet surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cinnamon bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it the day before and store it in an airtight container, or freeze it for longer storage.

Why did my swirl separate from the bread?

Be sure to roll the dough tightly and don’t use too much flour when rolling out to help it stick better.

Can I make this without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand — it just takes a bit more time and love.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cinnamon bread a try! It’s such a warm, comforting bake that’s perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with loved ones, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Please let me know your favorite ways to enjoy it! And if you love this recipe, save it for your next baking day or brunch.

Happy Cooking!

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