Baking cinnamon bread has always been a cherished tradition in my family, especially during the cooler months. I fondly remember waking up to the enticing aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked bread wafting through the house on brisk autumn mornings. My mother would always have a warm slice ready for me, slathered with butter and paired with a hot cup of cocoa. It’s one of those simple pleasures that brings a sense of warmth and comfort, instantly transporting me back to those cozy, love-filled moments.
Over the years, I’ve carried on this tradition, tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my taste. This cinnamon bread is wonderfully soft and slightly sweet, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. The swirl of cinnamon and sugar throughout the loaf adds a delightful texture and flavor, and it’s incredibly satisfying to watch the bread rise and bake to golden perfection. It’s a recipe that not only fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also fills your heart with nostalgia and joy. Whether you’re baking it for a family brunch or just because, this cinnamon bread is sure to become a favorite in your home too.
Ingredients
For the Bread
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Swirl
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted
- Instructions
- 1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking. This step ensures that the bread will come out easily once it’s baked, maintaining its perfect shape.
- 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps the bread rise uniformly.
- 3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang and helps to keep the bread moist, while the eggs provide structure and richness.
- 4. Combine Mixtures
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for about 3 minutes until smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for developing the right texture in the bread.
- 5. Prepare Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. This simple combination will create the beautiful and flavorful cinnamon swirl inside the bread.
- 6. Layer Batter and Swirl
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, and then sprinkle the rest of the swirl mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter, creating a marbled effect. This technique ensures that each slice has a lovely cinnamon-sugar ribbon running through it.
- 7. Bake
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the bread as it bakes.
- 8. Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy. The cooling process helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
- Variations and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free
- Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a dairy-free version. This alternative maintains the tangy flavor and moisture of the original recipe.
- Whole Wheat
- For a healthier twist, use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. This will add a bit more fiber and a slight nutty flavor without compromising the bread’s texture.
- Nutty Additions
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and flavor. Nuts pair wonderfully with cinnamon and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Gluten-Free
- Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour to make this bread suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Why This Recipe is Special
- This cinnamon bread stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it an easy go-to recipe when you crave something sweet and homemade. The balance of soft bread and cinnamon-sugar swirl creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Additionally, the recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak it to suit various dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy on a lazy Sunday morning, this cinnamon bread brings a touch of warmth and comfort that is hard to beat. The joy of baking it, coupled with the delightful aroma that fills your home, makes the entire experience as rewarding as the first delicious bite.
- Baking this cinnamon bread is more than just preparing a treat; it’s about creating moments and memories that you’ll cherish forever. Each slice carries with it the warmth of family traditions and the comfort of home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the sweet smell of cinnamon and the joy of baking something truly special.
