Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a classic baked treat that combines the comforting flavor of warm cinnamon with the soft richness of homemade bread. This beloved bread recipe has its roots in European baking traditions, closely related to cinnamon rolls and other spiced breads found in Sweden and Eastern Europe.

Cinnamon Swirl Bread rose to popularity in America through bakeries and home kitchens alike, cherished for its inviting aroma, striking appearance, and delightfully sweet, spiced taste. The art of swirling cinnamon sugar throughout a soft, enriched dough creates beautiful ribbons, making each slice not only delicious but visually appealing.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven, toasted with a pat of butter, or transformed into delectable French toast, Cinnamon Swirl Bread offers versatility and old-fashioned comfort. The appeal of this bread lies in its delicate balance between sweetness and spice, making it the perfect centerpiece for breakfasts, brunches, or snacks.

Additionally, the process of making Cinnamon Swirl Bread is approachable for novice bakers and satisfying for seasoned bread enthusiasts. A testament to the enduring love of cinnamon in baking, this recipe not only fills your kitchen with enticing aromas but also brings a slice of nostalgia to every table.

Join the ranks of bakers who have made Cinnamon Swirl Bread a staple in their homes-this guide will lead you through every step, from mixing the dough to slicing into beautifully swirled loaves bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
Gradually add the remaining flour, a bit at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl and is only slightly sticky.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks, add small amounts of flour as needed.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, make the filling by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, about 8x18 inches.

Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a ½ inch border along the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered surface.
Starting from one short side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.
Place the dough seam-side down in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover lightly and let rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until puffed and nearly doubled.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with an egg wash made from beaten egg and milk.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
Let the Cinnamon Swirl Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Information

Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful baked good that offers both flavor and moderate nutritional value. One average slice (about 50 grams) of Cinnamon Swirl Bread contains approximately 150-180 calories, making it a satisfying choice for breakfast or a snack.

The bread provides around 3-4 grams of protein and 25-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, mainly from the wheat flour and sugar. With about 4-5 grams of fat per slice, most of which is from the butter, it balances richness with lightness.

This bread supplies a small amount of dietary fiber-roughly 1-2 grams per slice-along with trace amounts of calcium and iron from the milk and flour. While Cinnamon Swirl Bread is sweetened with both granulated and brown sugars, you can moderate the amount of sugar to reduce sweetness if desired.

It contains eggs and dairy, so it is not suitable for those with those specific allergies or on a vegan diet unless specific modifications are made. Enjoyed in moderation, Cinnamon Swirl Bread adds a comforting touch to a balanced diet.

Pair it with fresh fruit, nut butter, or yogurt for a more nutrient-dense meal or snack. Remember, homemade options allow for more control over ingredients, making it easier to align this treat with your nutritional goals.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Cinnamon Swirl Bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic match, enjoy a warm slice alongside a robust cup of coffee or a creamy latte-this complements the bread's sweet spiciness.

Herbal or black teas, especially those with hints of vanilla or spice, enhance the warming notes of cinnamon. For a special brunch treat, serve with a glass of orange juice or a sparkling mimosa.

If you prefer wine, a slightly sweet Riesling or a lightly chilled Moscato plays well with the bread's subtle sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, consider spiced chai, hot chocolate, or even chilled almond milk for a gentle, nutty accent.

Whatever your preference, the right beverage will elevate your Cinnamon Swirl Bread experience.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the best Cinnamon Swirl Bread results, start with fresh active yeast to achieve a lofty rise and tender crumb. When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level off-this prevents a dense, heavy loaf.

Allow enough time for each proofing stage; cool kitchens may require longer rise times. Ensure your milk is lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast but not so hot as to kill it. When rolling the dough, aim for a rectangle with even thickness; this helps the swirl distribute uniformly.

For a tighter, more dramatic swirl, roll the dough tightly without stretching it excessively. Variations include adding chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or raisins to the cinnamon filling for extra texture and flavor.

If you desire an even sweeter loaf, drizzle a simple icing (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk and vanilla) over the cooled bread. For an extra aromatic touch, a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg can be blended in with the cinnamon sugar filling.

If you prefer a whole wheat version, substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat, but increase hydration slightly. This Cinnamon Swirl Bread recipe is forgiving and adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different spices, sweeteners, or flour blends to suit your taste.

Store any leftover bread well-wrapped at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Swirl Bread is an inviting addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. Serve it sliced thick and lightly toasted, then slather each piece with butter or cream cheese for added richness.

It also makes an indulgent base for French toast-simply dip slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and a splash of vanilla, then sauté until golden. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries for a decadent upgrade.

This sweet bread pairs beautifully with seasonal fruit: try serving it with orange segments, sliced apples, or a mixed berry compote. For a comforting afternoon snack, enjoy a slice with a drizzle of honey or your favorite nut butter.

When entertaining, transform Cinnamon Swirl Bread into elegant tea sandwiches or use it as a backdrop for a dessert tray accompanied by chocolate spreads or jams. Its crowd-pleasing flavor and appealing swirled appearance make it an easy favorite for holidays, gatherings, and special occasions.

Be sure to slice with a serrated bread knife for clean, beautiful pieces. For best flavor and texture, enjoy the bread within a couple of days of baking, or gently reheat slices in the toaster or oven to revive their just-baked quality.

Health Benefits

While Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a sweet treat, it does offer certain health benefits, especially when ingredients are thoughtfully chosen. Cinnamon is renowned for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially enhancing overall wellness and balancing blood sugar when consumed in moderation.

The bread's milk and eggs provide a modest source of protein and essential nutrients like Vitamin D, calcium, and choline. If whole wheat flour is incorporated, you'll benefit from increased dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady energy levels.

Additionally, homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread allows you to control the quantity and quality of sugars and fats, making it easier to reduce unnecessary additives common in store-bought versions. For those sensitive to sugar, decreasing the amount used in the filling or substituting with natural sweeteners can offer a lighter option.

Adding nuts or seeds to the swirl boosts healthy fats and vitamins. Enjoying this bread as part of a balanced diet, paired with fruit, yogurt, or nut butter, turns it into a more complete meal.

Remember to savor sweet breads in moderation, especially if you're mindful of managing caloric intake or blood sugar levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cinnamon Swirl Bread ahead of time?

Yes, Cinnamon Swirl Bread can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly. For longer storage, freeze sliced bread for up to two months and thaw as needed.

Why does my Cinnamon Swirl Bread separate at the swirl?

This can happen if there is too much filling or if the dough is not rolled tightly enough. Sealing the edges well and avoiding excess butter in the filling helps keep the swirl intact.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be substituted in equal amounts. You can skip the initial activation step, as instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients.

What can I use instead of eggs or dairy for a vegan Cinnamon Swirl Bread?

Substitute plant-based milk and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed plus 2.5 tablespoons water) for the milk and egg. Use vegan butter for both the dough and filling.

How do I keep Cinnamon Swirl Bread fresh?

Store the bread in an airtight container or well-wrapped at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice and freeze, then toast as needed.

Cinnamon Swirl Bread brings together the timeless comfort of homemade bread with the sweetness and warmth of cinnamon. Its inviting aroma, beautiful appearance, and irresistible taste make it a favorite for breakfasts, brunches, snacks, and special occasions. With this comprehensive guide, you can bake a loaf that is as impressive as it is delicious, enjoying the satisfaction of homemade bread with every bite. Whether served toasted, as French toast, or simply fresh from the oven, Cinnamon Swirl Bread promises to delight family and friends. Embrace the simple pleasure of baking and create memories with each slice of this cherished bread.