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Cinnamon Swirl Bread

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You’ve gotta check out this homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread recipe! It’s amazing homemad bread with a sweet, cinnamon sugar swirl running through it. You can enjoy it on its own, toast it up for a comforting snack, or turn it into the most epic French Toast you’ve ever had. It’s super versatile and just perfect for satisfying those cinnamon cravings!

Sliced Chunky Cinnamon Bread with Icing

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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap “Jump to Recipe” at the top of the page.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked homemade bread wafting through your kitchen, with a delightful twist – a mesmerizing swirl of cinnamon making each slice a perfect loaf of joy. That’s what you get with this homemade cinnamon swirl bread recipe. 

Its simplicity belies the delicious results; mixing classic bread ingredients with a heartwarming cinnamon swirl, it’s ideal for everything from an afternoon snack to the best French toast you’ve ever tasted. 

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade bread for the first time, this easy cinnamon bread recipe ensures a rewarding experience. The joy of baking comes alive, making every moment in the kitchen worthwhile. So, embrace the artisan within, and let’s bake a batch of homemade cinnamon bread that promises swirls of joy with every bite. 

Slices of Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Cinnamon Bread Ingredients

*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.

  • Bread Dough Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour (with an option to substitute half with Whole Wheat Flour for a healthier loaf), Granulated White Sugar, Salt, Yeast (make sure the water is warm to activate the yeast!), Warm Water, Egg, and Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter to enrich the dough. 
  • Cinnamon Swirl Mix: Cinnamon and extra Sugar to create that perfect swirl we all love. 
  • Glaze Ingredients: Powdered Sugar with Heavy Cream or Milk for a versatile and delicious topping. 

Whether you’re aiming for the ultimate afternoon snack, the best French toast base, or simply a delightful slice of cinnamon toast, these ingredients will guide you to that perfect loaf of homemade cinnamon swirl bread. Remember, the key to a rich and satisfying bread lies in the flexibility of options like using whole wheat flour and choosing between vegetable oil or melted butter for your dough!

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread

[Step 1] Mix 1 1/2 Cups of flour, 1/4 cup sugar, salt, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer on low speed with paddle attachments. Pour in the warm water and mix on low for about 1 minute. Add the egg and mix until smooth.

Add the egg and mix until smooth.

[Step 2] Switch to a dough hook attachment and mix in the remaining flour, just enough to make the dough pull away from the sides of the bowl. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes.

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes.

[Step 3] Grease a large bowl and place dough inside, turning once to coat both sides of dough. Cover the greased bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place until double in size, about one hour.

Cover with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place until double in size, about one hour.

[Step 4] Punch down the dough and pour it out onto a lightly floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll out a rectangle about 18 x 9 inches. Use a pastry brush to brush vegetable oil or melted butter onto the dough rectangle. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the dough.

Mix together the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon and sprinkle over the top of the dough.

[Step 5] Roll the dough up, similar to cinnamon rolls style, and pinch the edges of dough together. Fold the ends of the dough under the center of the roll and place in a greased 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise another 1 hour.

Fold the ends of the dough under the center of the roll and place in a greased 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan.

[Step 6] Place the bread pan on a baking sheet, to prevent any of the cinnamon sugar mixture that might leak out during baking, from ending up on the bottom of your oven. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes on the lowest rack in the oven. Tent the loaf with tin foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until it is deep golden brown.

Place the bread pan on a baking sheet, to prevent any of the cinnamon sugar mixture that might leak out during baking, from ending up on the bottom of your oven. I learned from experience.

[Step 7] Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack for 15 minutes, before removing the loaf to continue cooling on the wire rack.

Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack for 15 minutes, before removing the loaf to continue cooling.

[Step 8] Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and cream. Drizzle over the top of the bread.

Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and cream. Drizzle over the top of the bread.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

How to Store Leftover Bread

After indulging in the sensational taste of homemade cinnamon swirl bread, there’s often a bit left over. But don’t you worry – there’s a delicious future for that leftover cinnamon bread!

To ensure it stays just as delectable as when it first came out of the oven, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This simple step keeps the bread fresh by locking in moisture and preventing it from drying out. 

For optimal freshness, I always store my cinnamon bread in a cool, dry place, far away from any heat sources. And here’s a little secret I’ve discovered – you can even freeze this perfect loaf! Yes, freezing the bread is an excellent option for extending its shelf life, ensuring you have a scrumptious afternoon snack or the base for the best French toast ready at a moment’s notice. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped and thaw it properly when you’re ready to enjoy those irresistible cinnamon swirls once again. 

A slice of chunky cinnamon bread like Kneader's

Ideas to Use Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Once you’ve created that perfect loaf of homemade cinnamon swirl bread, the adventure doesn’t stop there. Here are some deliciously creative ways to enjoy your freshly baked masterpiece:

  • Making the best French toast: Dip slices of your cinnamon swirl bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and a dash of vanilla for a decadent breakfast. The cinnamon layers will caramelize to a delightful sweetness. 
  • A delightful afternoon snack: Toast a thick slice and slather with cream cheese or butter. Pair it with your favorite coffee for a cozy break in your day. 
  • Cinnamon toast: Simply broil a slice of your homemade cinnamon bread with butter and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon and sugar. Watch as it turns golden brown and fills the kitchen with its warm, comforting aroma. 

I encourage you all to experiment with different toppings and pairings, such as fresh fruits or nut butters. The versatility and pure deliciousness of this cinnamon swirl bread recipe know no bounds—whether you’re enjoying it as part of a lavish breakfast, a simple snack, or experimenting with savory applications, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. 

Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes on the lowest rack in the oven. Tent the loaf with tin foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until it is deep golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist on this delicious homemade cinnamon swirl bread. Just keep in mind, the texture might be a tad denser but equally tasty!

What if my bread dough isn’t rising?

Don’t fret! Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water used is warm—not hot or cold. Warmth and patience are key for the dough to rise and achieve that perfect loaf. 

Any tips for the best French toast using leftover cinnamon bread?

Absolutely! Soak your slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and a hint of vanilla overnight. Fry them up in the morning for the best French toast that’s rich in flavors. 

How can I ensure my cinnamon swirl doesn’t sink?

To prevent the cinnamon filling from sinking, roll the dough tightly and ensure even distribution by gently pressing the filling into the bread dough before rolling. 

Slices of Copycat Kneader's Chunky Cinnamon Bread with icing

Final Thoughts

This cinnamon swirl bread isn’t just any homemade bread; it’s a testament to the simplicity and immense satisfaction that comes from baking. With each slice of this easy cinnamon bread, you’re not just tasting the rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar but also embracing a moment of genuine pleasure in your day. 

The beauty of this homemade cinnamon swirl bread recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but in its ability to transform an ordinary moment into something extraordinary. Whether it’s indulging in a slice of cinnamon toast at breakfast, enjoying an afternoon snack, or elevating your morning with the best French toast you’ve ever made, this recipe is a versatile delight. 

Watch the video here:

Chunky Cinnamon Bread

Did you try this recipe? Make sure to give it a five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below!

Sliced Chunky Cinnamon Bread with Icing

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Yield: 1 Loaf
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Additional Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Chunky Cinnamon Bread is a rich egg bread that is swirled with cinnamon sugar. Perfect to eat alone, toasted, or made into French Toast. Just like Kneader's!

Ingredients

  • 3 to 3 1/4 Cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 Cup Sugar
  • 1 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
  • 2 1/4 Teaspoons Yeast
  • 1 Cup Warm Water
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter
  • 1/4 Cup Sugar + 1 1/2 Teaspoons Cinnamon
  • 1 Cup Powdered Sugar
  • 3 Tablespoons Heavy Cream or Milk

Instructions

  1. Mix 1 1/2 Cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachments.
  2. Pour in the warm water and mix on low for about 1 minute.
  3. Add the egg and mix until smooth.
  4. Switch to a dough hook and mix in the remaining flour, just enough to make the dough pull away from the sides of the bowl.
  5. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes.
  6. Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat both sides of dough.
  7. Cover with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place until double in size, about one hour.
  8. Punch down the dough and pour it out onto a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll out a rectangle about 18 x 9 inches.
  9. Use a pastry brush to brush vegetable oil or melted butter onto the dough rectangle.
  10. Mix together the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon and sprinkle over the top of the dough.
  11. Roll the dough up, cinnamon roll style, and pinch the edges of dough together.
  12. Fold the ends of the dough under the center of the roll and place in a greased 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan.
  13. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and allow to rise another 1 hour.
  14. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes on the lowest rack in the oven. Tent the loaf with tin foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until it is deep golden brown.
  15. Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack for 15 minutes, before removing the loaf to continue cooling.
  16. Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and cream. Drizzle over the top of the bread.

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