Classic Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Name: Classic Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 150 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (about 43°C (110°F)); 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg (room temperature); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

150 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked cinnamon swirl bread, perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

150 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cinnamon swirl bread is a delightful treat that combines the soft texture of bread with the warm, comforting flavours of cinnamon and sugar. It's perfect for breakfast, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a sweet afternoon snack with a cup of tea. This version of cinnamon swirl bread is made traditionally in the oven, allowing you to enjoy the process of kneading and shaping the dough by hand. The result is a beautiful loaf with a perfect swirl pattern and a deliciously fragrant aroma that fills your home. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is forgiving and rewarding. It's a wonderful way to introduce the joy of homemade bread to friends and family.

Instructions

Activate the yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Pro tip: If the mixture doesn't froth, the yeast might be inactive.

Form the dough

Add the flour, remaining sugar, salt, egg, and butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon or your hands to bring the dough together.

Knead the dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

Let the dough rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Pro tip: A warm, draft-free area is ideal for rising.

Prepare the filling

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Shape the bread

Punch down the dough and roll it into a 20x25 cm (8x10 inch) rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Pro tip: Leave a small border around the edges to seal the roll.

Roll and prepare for baking

Roll the dough tightly from the short end. Place in a greased 22x12 cm (9x5 inch) loaf pan, seam side down.

Pro tip: Pinch the seams and ends to seal.

Final rise

Cover and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes until it has risen slightly over the top of the pan.

Bake the bread

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Pro tip: Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Cool and serve

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

Pro tip: Cooling on a rack prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
Roll the dough tightly to prevent gaps in the swirl.
Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cinnamon swirl bread in a bread machine?

Yes, you can make the dough in a bread machine on the dough setting, then roll it out, fill with cinnamon sugar, and bake in the oven.

How do I ensure the cinnamon swirl doesn't separate from the bread?

Roll the dough tightly and ensure the edges are sealed well before the final rise and baking.

What can I use instead of brown sugar in the filling?

You can substitute with coconut sugar or granulated sugar, though the flavour profile will change slightly.

Can I freeze cinnamon swirl bread?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil after cooling completely. Freeze for up to three months.

What is the best way to store cinnamon swirl bread?

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

How many calories are in a slice of cinnamon swirl bread?

Each slice of this cinnamon swirl bread contains approximately 210 calories.

What temperature should the milk be to activate yeast?

The milk should be about 43°C (110°F) to properly activate the yeast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cinnamon swirl bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the loaf after it has cooled completely. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.