Description
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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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
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2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¾ tsp salt
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3 to 3½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
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⅓ cup light brown sugar
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1½ tbsp ground cinnamon
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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.
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.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
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.
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.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing (if you can wait!).
Notes
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!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American