If you’re craving something warm, sweet, and utterly comforting, you’re going to love this Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe. It’s that perfect loaf loaded with a cinnamon sugar ribbon stretched right through the middle, making every slice feel like a little moment of magic. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to bake this again and again—it’s that fan-freaking-tastic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these pantry staples already, making it super easy to whip up at any time.
- Beautiful Cinnamon Swirl: The ribbon of cinnamon sugar running through every slice looks just as amazing as it tastes.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to buttermilk and just the right mix of wet and dry ingredients, this bread stays soft and flavorful.
- Perfect For Any Occasion: Breakfast, snack, or dessert—this cinnamon swirl bread always hits the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to baking this Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe, the ingredients work beautifully together to create that flavorful, tender bread you know and love. I always recommend fresh cinnamon and quality buttermilk for that little extra oomph.
- All-purpose flour: This is the base that gives the bread structure and a tender crumb.
- Sugar: Divided into two parts, it sweetens the bread and makes the cinnamon swirl extra delicious.
- Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help your bread rise just right.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tangy note that complements the cinnamon.
- Large egg: Helps bind everything together and gives the bread structure.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without weighing it down.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the swirl—freshly ground will make the biggest difference in flavor.
- Confectioners’ sugar (for glaze): Adds a sweet, smooth finish that you can drizzle or dip into.
- Whole milk (for glaze): Used sparingly to get the glaze to just the right consistency.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I like to experiment with the swirl and toppings to keep things fresh and fun in the kitchen.
- Nutty Twist: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar swirl gives a delightful crunch—my family goes crazy for this texture combo!
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves with your cinnamon sugar for a deeper, cozy flavor that I usually save for colder months.
- Gluten-Free Version: I’ve had success swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend—just keep an eye on texture since it might bake a little differently.
- Vegan Swap: Use a flax egg and plant-based milk instead of buttermilk, and replace vegetable oil with coconut oil for a lovely subtle flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
Step 1: Mixing the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing just the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan to make sure the bread releases nicely. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking soda, and salt—dry ingredients first to evenly distribute everything. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and vegetable oil, then pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients. Stir gently, just until the flour disappears—over-mixing can make the bread dense, so keep it light and easy.
Step 2: Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup sugar with the cinnamon. This is where the magic begins! The balance of cinnamon and sugar is key—don’t be shy with the cinnamon if you love it as much as I do. Set this aside for layering.
Step 3: Layering and Creating the Swirl
Pour half the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly over it. Then, spread the rest of the batter on top and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over that. Using a knife, gently cut through the batter vertically and horizontally to create a pretty swirl pattern. This step is so satisfying and really makes your bread stand out.
Step 4: Baking and Cooling
Bake the bread for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell incredible—trust me, it’ll be hard to wait! Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time helps the bread set so it slices perfectly.
Step 5: Finishing Touch with Glaze
While the bread cools, mix confectioners’ sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk to get your desired drizzle consistency—I like mine just thick enough to coat the spoon. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top and let it set. It adds the perfect hint of sweetness and a lovely shine to your masterpiece.
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: I learned that mixing just until moistened keeps the bread light and fluffy, so aim for a few lumps instead of smooth batter.
- Fresh Cinnamon is a Game Changer: Grinding your own cinnamon or using a recently opened jar ensures the swirl packs a pungent punch of warmth.
- Grease Only the Bottom of the Pan: This prevents the cinnamon sugar from sticking to the sides, which can happen if you grease the whole pan.
- Swirling With a Knife: Don’t overdo the swirl—just a couple of clean cuts to mix the layers is enough to create that picture-perfect pattern.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping slices of this bread with a pat of butter that melts into the crumb—simple magic. Occasionally, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey adds a pretty finishing touch, especially when serving to guests.
Side Dishes
This bread really shines on its own, but I like pairing it with a hot cup of chai or coffee, or alongside a fresh fruit salad for breakfast. It also makes a sweet companion to a creamy yogurt bowl or soft cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunches and special occasions, I serve thick slices stacked on a pretty platter with cinnamon sticks and fresh berries around for color. You can even slice it thin, toast it, and top with cream cheese and cinnamon sugar for fancy finger food style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I wrap leftover cinnamon swirl bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days—it holds moisture well but is best enjoyed fresh. If your kitchen is warm and humid, consider refrigerating to keep it fresh longer.
Freezing
I often slice the bread before freezing so I can thaw individual pieces as needed. Wrap slices in foil or place in airtight freezer bags, and the bread stays delicious for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
A quick zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or a couple of minutes wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven refreshes the bread beautifully, bringing back soft warmth and that wonderful aroma.
FAQs
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Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This helps keep the bread tender and gives it that subtle tang which complements the cinnamon swirl really well.
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Can I make this bread in a different pan size?
You can, but keep in mind the baking time might change. If your pan is smaller and deeper, bake longer but check for doneness every 5 minutes after the initial 40 minutes. For larger pans, the bread will be thinner and bake faster.
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What is the best way to get a strong cinnamon flavor?
Freshly ground cinnamon or purchasing high-quality cinnamon powder makes all the difference. Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid buying in bulk if you don’t use it often, so it stays potent for your cinnamon swirl bread.
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Can I make this bread vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based milk with a splash of lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute. Swap vegetable oil with coconut or another neutral oil and you’ll get a moist, delicious vegan cinnamon swirl bread.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy, pretty, and has this warm, comforting vibe that everyone appreciates. It’s a perfect way to brighten a morning or add a homemade touch to your afternoon tea. I genuinely hope you try it soon—you won’t be disappointed. Trust me, sharing this bread with family and friends always brings smiles around the table!
Print
Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful and visually appealing loaf featuring a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl baked right into the middle. The bread is moist and tender thanks to buttermilk and vegetable oil, with a perfect balance of cinnamon spice and sweetness. Finished with a simple confectioners’ sugar glaze, it’s an ideal treat for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 cups sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1-1/2 to 2 teaspoons whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease only the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking while ensuring the sides bake properly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until the mixture is moistened. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with the ground cinnamon, mixing thoroughly.
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to cut through the batter and cinnamon sugar layers, swirling to create a cinnamon ribbon effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
- Cool the Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from breaking apart and allows it to set.
- Make and Drizzle the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar with 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons of whole milk until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity for desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled loaf for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- This Cinnamon Swirl Bread features a beautiful and delicious cinnamon sugar ribbon baked directly into the loaf for a stunning presentation.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and light.
- Greasing only the bottom of the pan ensures good crust development on the sides.
- The glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet bread.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of loaf)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
