Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe: A Warm, Sweet Slice of Comfort

 Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe: A Warm, Sweet Slice of Comfort

There’s something deeply nostalgic about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread wafting through the kitchen. With its buttery, tender crumb and ribbon of spiced sugar winding through the center, Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread is more than just a treat—it’s a hug in loaf form. Whether toasted for breakfast, served as a snack, or turned into French toast, this bread offers a comforting, homemade taste that’s impossible to resist.

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cinnamon Swirl Bread

From its golden crust to its soft, pillowy interior, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Inspired by traditional European cinnamon breads and perfected for modern kitchens, this loaf is easy to make, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and is bound to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Understanding what each ingredient brings to the table is key to mastering this bread:

For the Dough:

1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C): Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): The leavening agent that makes the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.

⅓ cup granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.

1 large egg: Adds structure, richness, and moisture.

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Infuses the bread with flavor and softness.

1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and forms the backbone of the dough. Use more as needed for a smooth, non-sticky consistency.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup granulated sugar: Delivers the core sweetness in the swirl.

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The warm, spicy star of the show.

2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the filling stick and adds richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy. This shows the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add in the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl but remain slightly tacky.

> Pro Tip: Start with 3 ½ cups of flour and add more only if needed. Over-flouring can lead to dense bread.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside the melted butter for brushing the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 9x18 inches. Brush the surface with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Roll the dough tightly from the short side into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Place seam-side down into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pan and let the loaf rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffed and slightly domed above the pan.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

> Pro Tip: Tent the loaf with foil halfway through baking if it starts to brown too quickly.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Why This Recipe Works

✅ Kid-friendly: A sweet, cinnamon-filled swirl makes every slice irresistible to little ones.

✅ Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack.

✅ Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning.

✅ Freezer-friendly: Freeze slices individually for quick future breakfasts or treats.

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Serving Suggestions

Toasted with butter for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Turn it into decadent French toast with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Pair with whipped cream cheese or fruit preserves for a brunch board addition.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Use fresh yeast: Expired yeast won’t rise properly.

Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too long can toughen the texture.

Seal the roll tightly: This prevents the swirl from separating during baking.

Let it cool before slicing: Cutting hot bread can make it gummy or tear the swirl.

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Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Bake

This Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a memory waiting to be made. From the first slice to the last crumb, every bite is full of homemade warmth, nostalgic flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you're baking for family, guests, or simply yourself, this bread delivers a bakery-quality experience right from your own oven.

So next time you crave something cozy, skip the store-bought loaf and bake this showstopper. It's easy, unforgettable, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Don’t Forget to Share!

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends or pin it to your favorite baking board. For more comforting classics and irresistible bread recipes, be sure to check out our other top-rated baking guides.

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