Introduction
There’s something extraordinary about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful Cinnamon-Sugar Bread is not only easy to make but also brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. It features a soft, tender crumb enveloped in a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl that makes each slice irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– ½ cup butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
This recipe is straightforward and highly rewarding, resulting in a loaf of bread that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making it just as much as the delightful outcome!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Whisk dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine dry and wet mixtures
Add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture along with half of the buttermilk. Mix gently.
6. Complete the batter
Add the remaining dry mixture and buttermilk, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
7. Prepare cinnamon-sugar filling
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar filling.
8. Layer the batter
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar
Sprinkle two-thirds of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
10. Swirl the mixture
Use a butter knife to lightly swirl the cinnamon-sugar into the batter.
11. Add remaining batter
Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out evenly.
12. Top with cinnamon-sugar
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
13. Bake the bread
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
14. Cool in the pan
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
15. Transfer to wire rack
Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
1. Butter consistency
Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
2. Buttermilk substitute
If buttermilk is not available, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Swirling technique
Be gentle when swirling the cinnamon-sugar; you want a marbled effect, not fully mixed.
4. Baking time
Oven temperatures may vary, so check the bread a few minutes early to avoid over-baking.
5. Storage
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Creaming is the process of beating softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This technique adds air to the mixture, creating a light texture in the baked goods.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
When combining wet and dry ingredients, it’s important to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense or tough texture.
Creating Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
To make the cinnamon-sugar filling, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. This mixture will provide added flavor and a sweet swirl in the bread.
Swirling Ingredients
Using a butter knife, swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter lightly. This creates beautiful ribbons of flavor without completely blending the ingredients.
Baking
Bake at 350°F until golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
Cooling
Allow the bread to cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps maintain its texture.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just adjust the salt to taste if desired.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it’s golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.
How should I store the bread after baking?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
The cinnamon-sugar loaf bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of cinnamon with the sweetness of sugar, all wrapped in a soft and fluffy bread. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this recipe is simple to make and will surely impress your family and friends. With its moist texture and incredible aroma, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Swirl Muffins
Transform the loaf recipe into muffins by adjusting the baking time. Delicious for a quick breakfast or snack.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread
Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Incorporate diced apples into the batter to enhance the fruitiness of the bread while keeping the cinnamon flavor intact.
Pecan Praline Loaf
Mix in chopped pecans and a swirl of praline sauce for an indulgent, nutty addition.
Banana Cinnamon Bread
Substitute one ripe mashed banana for half of the butter for a moist, banana-flavored version of this cinnamon bread.
Lemon Zest Cinnamon Muffins
Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist on traditional cinnamon flavor.
