This Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a must-try homemade treat that combines soft, fluffy dough with a delicious buttery cinnamon-sugar filling. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this easy-to-follow recipe yields one beautiful 9×5-inch loaf. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a perfect cinnamon swirl with each slice, and enjoy a warm, fresh-baked loaf that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients for the Dough
- 1 cup warm whole milk (approximately 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
- ½ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft (for spreading)
For the Glaze (Optional)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
In a stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of the granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Make the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing at low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Increase the speed to medium and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add up to ¼ cup of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides but remains slightly tacky to the touch. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling and Pan
While the dough rises, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Shape the Loaf
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 18×9 inches in size. Spread the soft butter evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter. Starting at the long edge closest to you (the buttered edge), tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seams and ends to seal in the filling.
Second Rise
Carefully place the log into the prepared loaf pan, seam-side down. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 45-60 minutes, or until the dough rises about 1 inch above the rim of the pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
Bake
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. The bread is done when the top is deep golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glaze and Serve
Once the bread has cooled, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze. Drizzle over the top of the loaf. Slice with a serrated knife for clean, even slices, and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread
- Use very soft butter for the filling, as it helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick better and prevents the filling from spilling out while rolling.
- Roll the dough tightly to ensure a defined and beautiful swirl. Tuck the dough in as you roll.
- To prevent squishing the layers, always use a sharp serrated knife when slicing the bread after it has cooled completely.
- Be mindful of flour usage—just enough to prevent sticking. Excess flour can make the dough tough and difficult to roll.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to ensure that the structure sets properly, giving you clean, beautiful slices.
With this Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread recipe, you’ll enjoy the wonderful aroma and delicious flavor of homemade bread with a perfect cinnamon swirl. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or a special treat, this bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.