Easy Homemade Cinnamon Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cinnamon bread is simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet it delivers on flavor and texture. The soft bread with a warm cinnamon swirl is just the right balance of sweet and comforting, and it makes your kitchen smell like heaven while baking. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this cinnamon bread is versatile and a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great recipe for beginner bakers and experienced ones alike.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for the swirl)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.

5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth it out with a spatula.

6. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.

7. Add the remaining batter on top and spread it out evenly.

8. Using a knife or a skewer, swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter to create the swirl effect.

9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 45-50 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour (including cooling time)

Variations

• Add-ins: For a twist, you can add raisins, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

• Glaze: Top your cinnamon bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra layer of sweetness.

• Vegan option: Swap the egg and milk for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and a flax egg to make the bread vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to help retain moisture.

• Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces. To defrost, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them for a crispy texture.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help the bread hold its shape.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the batter?

Yes, you can use brown sugar in place of granulated sugar for a richer flavor. However, the texture might be slightly denser due to the molasses in brown sugar.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent the bread with foil to prevent it from overbaking.

Can I make this bread without cinnamon?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can omit it from the recipe or replace it with another spice such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a different flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make two loaves. Just make sure you use a larger pan or bake in two separate pans, and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, feel free to use any type of milk, whether it’s whole milk, skim milk, or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.

Can I add frosting or a glaze on top of the cinnamon bread?

Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can be drizzled over the bread for extra sweetness. You can also top it with cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk.

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use self-rising flour, but be sure to omit the baking powder and salt in the recipe, as self-rising flour already contains both.

Is this recipe good for beginners?

Absolutely! This cinnamon bread recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner bakers. It doesn't require special techniques, and it yields delicious results.

Conclusion

This easy homemade cinnamon bread is a delightful, comforting treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s quick to prepare and bake, and it fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, this cinnamon bread will definitely hit the spot. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends – it’s a recipe that everyone will love.

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