Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
Introduction: Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a warm, fragrant, and comforting treat that fills the home with the delightful scent of cinnamon and sugar as it bakes. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the sweet, cinnamon-sugar swirl makes this bread a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or a simple afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, enjoying it as part of a cozy weekend breakfast, or gifting it to someone special. The swirl of cinnamon and sugar running through each slice makes every bite indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk (warm, around 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the cinnamon filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk (or water)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Stir until the dough begins to come together, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
- While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon filling by mixing the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together in a small bowl.
- In a separate bowl, melt the softened butter. Set both the cinnamon-sugar mixture and the melted butter aside.
3. Shape the Bread:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Brush the rolled dough with the melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting at one long side of the dough, tightly roll it up into a log, making sure to pinch the edges together to seal the seam.
- Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Tuck in the ends of the dough, if needed, to fit it into the pan.
- Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes or until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
4. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
- While the bread is cooling, mix the powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water to create a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread, allowing it to set for a few minutes before slicing.
Methods:
- Kneading by Hand: If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand. This method requires more effort but ensures a wonderful texture. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The hand-kneading method gives the bread a slightly denser, chewy texture.
- Using a Stand Mixer: For a quicker and less labor-intensive method, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Mix the ingredients on low speed, gradually increasing the speed to medium. Knead the dough for 6-8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This method produces a slightly lighter, fluffier texture.
- Overnight Method: For a richer flavor, prepare the dough the night before. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
History:
Cinnamon Swirl Bread, also known as Cinnamon Raisin Bread in some variations, has its origins in European baking traditions, specifically from Eastern European and Scandinavian cuisines. In these regions, sweet yeast breads and cakes were often made with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, which were imported via trade routes. The idea of swirling cinnamon and sugar through a yeast dough likely came from combining sweet pastry techniques with yeasted bread-making methods.
The popularity of cinnamon bread spread through North America, where it became a beloved breakfast bread in many households. Over time, cinnamon swirl bread became a staple in bakeries and is often made in various forms, including with the addition of raisins, nuts, or a glaze.
Benefits:
- Rich in Carbohydrates: The main ingredient in cinnamon swirl bread is flour, which provides complex carbohydrates that are important for energy. While the bread should be enjoyed in moderation, it’s a great source of fuel for your body.
- Contains Fiber: Depending on the type of flour used, the bread can provide some fiber. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour increases the fiber content, helping with digestion and satiety.
- Cinnamon Benefits: Cinnamon, the star flavor of this bread, offers multiple health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon also has antibacterial properties and can help improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
- Calcium and Iron: The milk and butter used in the recipe add small amounts of calcium and iron, both essential for bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.
- Mood-Boosting: The act of baking cinnamon swirl bread, along with the smell of cinnamon in the air, can have a positive impact on your mood. Plus, the sugar in the bread releases dopamine, making you feel happy and content.
Formation:
Cinnamon swirl bread is formed through the combination of a yeasted dough, a cinnamon-sugar filling, and a slight rise in the oven that creates a beautiful swirl pattern. The process involves creating a smooth dough, rolling it out, spreading it with cinnamon and sugar, then rolling the dough into a log to form the swirl. The dough is then allowed to rise, and baking in a loaf pan gives the bread its traditional shape.
The swirl is achieved by ensuring that the cinnamon-sugar mixture is evenly spread over the buttered dough and tightly rolling it, which guarantees that every slice has that signature swirl of sweetness.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving, one slice):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal (depending on size and glaze)
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g (higher if more butter is used)
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1-2g (if using whole wheat flour)
- Sugar: 10-12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Calcium: 4-6% of Daily Value
- Iron: 6-8% of Daily Value
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on portion size, the type of flour used, and the inclusion of the glaze.
Conclusion:
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is the perfect blend of sweet, spiced flavor and soft, fluffy texture. Its history as a comforting, home-baked treat makes it a nostalgic favorite for many, while its simple ingredients and easy methods ensure that it’s accessible for even beginner bakers. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this bread is sure to delight. With its rich flavor and tempting swirl of cinnamon and sugar, it’s a treat that everyone can love, making it a perfect recipe to bake for yourself or to share with loved ones.
For Lovers of Comfort Food: If you’re a fan of warm, comforting baked goods, cinnamon swirl bread is an absolute must-try. The smell of cinnamon and sugar filling your kitchen, the soft and tender texture of each slice, and the indulgent sweetness of the cinnamon filling will make you fall in love with this recipe time and time again. Whether served fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day with butter, this bread will never fail to satisfy your cravings.