This Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweet warmth of cinnamon with the soft, tender texture of freshly baked bread. Made with a rich dough that includes a generous amount of eggs and butter, this bread is both luxurious and comforting. The swirl of cinnamon sugar gives each slice a beautiful pattern and an irresistible aroma that's perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks.
Why You'll Love This Bread
This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, wrapped in a soft, fluffy loaf that's ideal for toasting or eating as is. The process of making the bread, from the initial rise to the final bake, fills your kitchen with the homey scent of cinnamon and fresh dough. This bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a wonderful addition to any table.
Perfect Occasion for Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a versatile treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Serve it during family gatherings, special weekend breakfasts, or gift it during the holidays. It's especially delightful when served warm with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey.
Baking Tips
To ensure the best results, make sure the milk is just warm to the touch before adding the yeast—too hot and it might kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t activate. Allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area will help it double in size properly, and make sure your butter is at room temperature to easily incorporate into the dough.
Ingredients:
- Dough:
- 238 ml milk
- 7 g active dry yeast
- 384 g all-purpose flour (type 55), plus up to 80 g additional if necessary
- 70 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 90 g butter, room temperature
- Filling:
- Sugar, as needed
- Cinnamon, as needed
- Butter, as needed for spreading
Instructions:
- Prepare Yeast Mixture:
- Heat the milk until warm but not hot. Stir in the yeast and a spoonful of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 15 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the foamy yeast mixture, flour, the remaining sugar, and eggs. Mix to combine all the ingredients.
- Attach the dough hook and knead at a medium speed (2 or 3) for 20 minutes, or until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Add the room temperature butter and continue to knead for an additional 5 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Spread with softened butter and sprinkle generously with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Roll up the dough tightly, cut it in half lengthwise, and twist the two halves together to form a braided loaf.
- Place the braided dough in a greased loaf pan. Let it rise for an additional 15 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Sprinkle the top of the loaf with more cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor and crunch.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this beautiful and delicious Cinnamon Swirl Bread, a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself!