Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Sandra
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Cuisine: American

Description

If comfort had a scent, it would be freshly baked Cinnamon Swirl Bread. This classic loaf is soft, fluffy, and loaded with a gooey cinnamon-sugar spiral that melts into the dough as it bakes. Toast it for breakfast, slather it with butter, or enjoy a warm slice straight from the oven—every bite is pure nostalgic bliss.

Whether you’re baking for your family, friends, or just for yourself (we don’t blame you), this bread is cozy, homey, and oh-so-satisfying.

Want cozy recipes like this delivered weekly? Subscribe and stay inspired in the kitchen!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

  • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • ¾ tsp salt

  • 3 to cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar

  • 1½ tbsp ground cinnamon

  • 2 tbsp melted butter


Instructions

1. Proof the Yeast

In a large bowl, stir warm milk and sugar together. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

Add egg, melted butter, and salt to the bowl. Mix well. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead until smooth (about 8–10 minutes).

3. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.

4. Make the Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.

5. Roll & Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it into a 9×14-inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.

6. Shape the Loaf

Roll tightly from the short end into a log. Pinch the seam closed and place seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.

7. Second Rise

Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

8. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

9. Cool & Slice

 

Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing (if you can wait!).


Notes

Tight Swirl = beautiful cinnamon ribbons—roll the dough firmly.

Use a thermometer to check milk temp (too hot can kill the yeast).

Cool before slicing to prevent tearing and smudging the swirl.

Add-ins welcome: chopped nuts, raisins, or a touch of vanilla.