Here’s a classic Cinnamon Bread recipe—soft, buttery, and filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Homemade Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
• ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Egg Wash (Optional, for a golden crust):
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
• In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
• Add the softened butter, egg, and yeast mixture.
• Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes (by hand or in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Roll and Fill the Dough:
• Once the dough has risen, roll it into a 9×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
• Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface.
• Roll the dough tightly from the short side to form a loaf.
6. Second Rise:
• Place the rolled dough in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If using, whisk together the egg and milk, then brush the top of the loaf for a shiny finish.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
• Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• Slice and enjoy warm with butter or drizzle with icing for extra sweetness!
Optional Variations:
• Raisin Cinnamon Bread: Add ½ cup of raisins before rolling.
• Glazed Cinnamon Bread: Drizzle with a simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk).
Would you like a version with streusel topping or a pull-apart style?