Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

This homemade cinnamon swirl bread has been my go-to weekend baking project when I want the house to smell incredible and have something special for breakfast all week. The beautiful spiral of cinnamon sugar running through each slice creates that perfect balance of soft bread and sweet spice that store-bought versions simply cannot match.

I first started making this bread during a particularly cold winter when we were snowed in for days. The therapeutic process of kneading dough and the reward of warm, fragrant bread straight from the oven has made this recipe a family tradition ever since.

Ingredients

• Warm milk: Supports yeast activation and creates a tender crumb in your bread
• Instant yeast: Ensures reliable rising without the proofing step required for active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough
• Large egg: Enriches the dough for a softer texture and golden color
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and that unmistakable buttery flavor
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure but still keeps the bread soft; look for unbleached for best flavor
• Ground cinnamon: Choose Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon for the most aromatic experience
• Additional milk for brushing: Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough

Step-by-Step Instructions

Activate the yeast:

Combine warm milk (exactly 110°F is ideal; use a thermometer for precision), sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. The mixture should become foamy after about 5 minutes, indicating active yeast. If no foam appears, your yeast may be dead, and you should start over.

Create the dough:

Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to your yeast mixture, then gradually incorporate the flour. The dough should come together but remain slightly tacky. Add flour tablespoon by tablespoon if needed, but resist the urge to add too much or your bread will be dense.

Knead to perfection:

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a full 5 to 6 minutes. This develops the gluten structure that gives your bread its perfect texture. The dough should be smooth and elastic, springing back when poked gently.

First rise:

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and allow it to rise until doubled. This usually takes 1 to 2 hours depending on your kitchen temperature. For the best rise, place it in a warm, draft-free spot.

Create the cinnamon filling:

Mix your cinnamon and sugar together thoroughly to ensure even distribution in your swirl. High-quality cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile of your bread.

Shape the loaf:

Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 9×18 inches. Evenness matters here for a consistent swirl. Brush with milk then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the surface, leaving a small border at one short end to help seal the roll.

Form the spiral:

Starting from the short end without the border, roll the dough tightly to create a log shape. Each turn should be firm but not so tight that you stretch the dough. Pinch the seam and ends to completely seal in the filling.

Second rise:

Place your rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise until noticeably puffy and reaching just above the rim of the pan, approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

Bake to perfection:

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The bread should reach an internal temperature of 190°F and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Tent with foil after 20 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Finish and cool:

Brush the hot loaf with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust. Allow to cool in the pan for exactly 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the temptation to cut into it while hot or the texture will be gummy.

My absolute favorite way to enjoy this bread is slightly toasted with a smear of salted butter that melts into all the cinnamon swirls. I still remember the first time my youngest daughter helped me make this recipe she was so proud of the perfect swirl we achieved that she insisted on delivering slices to all our neighbors.

Storing Your Cinnamon Bread

Store your cinnamon swirl bread at room temperature in an airtight container or bread bag for up to three days. The bread will remain soft and delicious, though the crust may lose some of its initial crispness. For longer storage, slice the completely cooled bread and freeze individual portions with parchment paper between each slice. This method allows you to thaw only what you need, and the bread maintains its quality for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply toast frozen slices directly from the freezer or allow to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Making Ahead Options

This dough works beautifully as an overnight recipe. After the first rise, shape the loaf and place it in your greased pan, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. The slow, cold fermentation actually improves the flavor development in your bread. The next morning, remove the loaf from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about an hour before baking. This method is perfect for serving warm, fresh-baked bread for weekend breakfast without an early morning baking session.

Flavor Variations

The basic cinnamon swirl provides a classic flavor profile, but you can customize this bread in countless ways. Add half a cup of plump raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for bursts of fruity sweetness. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add wonderful texture and nutty flavor. For an orange-cinnamon version, add a tablespoon of orange zest to your dough and a teaspoon to your filling mixture. Apple pie spice can replace the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. For a special occasion version, drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash of milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the bread extra soft?

Ensure the milk is warm (110°F/43°C) to properly activate the yeast, and knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rise fully for a tender crumb.

→ Can I add additional fillings?

Yes! You can add raisins, chopped nuts, or even small chocolate chips to the cinnamon swirl filling for added flavor and texture.

→ What’s the best way to store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy access.

→ Can I make this bread healthier?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. The bread will be denser but still delicious.

→ Why does my swirl not stay intact when slicing?

Make sure the cinnamon sugar is spread evenly and the dough is tightly rolled. Be gentle when slicing to maintain the swirl design.

→ Can I skip the butter topping?

Yes, the butter topping is optional. It adds a subtle richness and a glossy appearance, but the bread is still delicious without it.