Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

There’s something magical about the smell of warm cinnamon and freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen—and Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread is the ultimate cozy indulgence. Soft, tender, slightly sweet bread laced with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl in every slice—it’s the kind of loaf that feels like a warm hug.

Whether you toast it with butter, turn it into French toast, or enjoy it straight from the loaf, this is the kind of homemade treat that makes any morning feel special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Buttery Texture – A perfectly fluffy crumb with a golden crust.
Sweet Cinnamon Swirl – A ribbon of brown sugar and cinnamon in every bite.
Versatile Delight – Great for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Beginner Friendly – Easy-to-follow steps for bread-baking success.
Freezer-Friendly – Make one now, freeze one for later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

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 3½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• 1½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Dough hook or wooden spoon
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Wire rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

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

Step 2: Make the Dough

Stir in the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add flour (start with 3 cups) until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if sticky.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

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

Step 6: Roll & Rise Again

Tightly roll the dough into a log, pinch the seam, and place seam-side down into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Cool & Slice

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

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread

• Use Fresh Yeast – Make sure your yeast is active and bubbly.
• Tight Roll = Clean Swirl – Roll the dough tightly to prevent gaps.
• Cool Before Slicing – This helps maintain the swirl and texture.
• Add Raisins or Nuts – For extra flavor and texture in the swirl!

Serving Suggestions

Toasted with Butter or Honey – Simple and classic.
French Toast Upgrade – Makes an amazing base for decadent French toast.
Bread Pudding Base – Cube and use in a cozy cinnamon bread pudding.
Coffee Companion – Pairs perfectly with your morning brew.

How to Store & Freeze

Store: Wrap cooled loaf in plastic wrap or a bread bag. Keeps at room temp for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5 days.

Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes! Skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely—let it rise in the fridge overnight, then continue with shaping and baking the next day.

What flour works best?
All-purpose is great, but bread flour will give a chewier texture if preferred.

Can I make this in a bread machine?
Yes! Use the dough cycle, then remove, fill, shape, and bake in the oven.

Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 90 minutes rising)

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Cuisine: American

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