Easy Cinnamon Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Deliciousness

Easy Cinnamon Bread: just the name conjures up images of warm, comforting mornings, doesn’t it? Imagine pulling a loaf of freshly baked bread from the oven, its sweet, cinnamony aroma filling your kitchen. The golden-brown crust crackles gently as you slice into it, revealing a soft, pillowy interior swirled with ribbons of cinnamon sugar. This isn’t just bread; it’s a hug in every bite.

Cinnamon bread, in its various forms, has been a beloved treat for generations. While its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of cinnamon and bread has roots in ancient spice trading routes. Cinnamon, a prized spice for centuries, found its way into European baking traditions, eventually leading to the delightful creation we know and love today. From simple, rustic loaves to elaborate, braided masterpieces, cinnamon bread has evolved into a versatile and universally appealing baked good.

What makes easy cinnamon bread so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spice, the satisfying chewiness of the bread, and the comforting warmth it provides. It’s a treat that’s equally enjoyable with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a cozy dinner. Plus, its relative simplicity makes it a fantastic baking project for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. So, let’s get baking and create a loaf of pure happiness!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk (105-115°F)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is active and will help the bread rise properly. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to get a fresh packet.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the sugar, salt, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. I like to whisk the dry ingredients together in a separate bowl first to ensure they are evenly distributed, but you can add them directly to the wet ingredients if you prefer.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter and the egg. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks a little rough at this stage.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic happens! The warm environment helps the yeast work its wonders, creating a light and airy bread. I often put my dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!) to create the perfect rising environment.

Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

1. Combine Ingredients: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon sugar filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until it forms a smooth paste. Make sure your butter is truly softened; otherwise, it will be difficult to mix properly. I sometimes microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it!

Assembling and Baking the Bread:

1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. This helps to redistribute the yeast and create a more even texture in the final product.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Try to keep the rectangle as even as possible for a more uniform bread.
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Make sure to get all the way to the edges! This ensures every bite is packed with delicious cinnamon flavor.
4. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it closed. This is important to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
5. Cut the Log: Using a sharp knife or dental floss (my preferred method!), cut the log into 12-15 slices. Dental floss creates a cleaner cut and prevents the slices from getting squished. Simply slide the floss under the log, cross the ends over each other, and pull to slice.
6. Arrange in Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Arrange the cinnamon roll slices in the pan, cut-side up. You can place them close together, as they will expand during the second rise.
7. Second Rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until the rolls have puffed up and are touching each other. This second rise is crucial for creating a soft and fluffy bread.
8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can tent the pan with foil.
9. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows the bread to set slightly and prevents the frosting from melting completely.

Preparing the Glaze (Optional):

1. Combine Ingredients: While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. I like my glaze to be thick enough to coat the bread but thin enough to drizzle easily.
2. Drizzle: Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon bread. Serve immediately and enjoy! This bread is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Yeast: As mentioned earlier, fresh yeast is essential for a good rise. Check the expiration date on your yeast package before using it.
• Warm Milk: The milk should be warm, not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature between 105-115°F.
• Don’t Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough bread. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but not overly stiff.
• Warm Place for Rising: A warm environment is crucial for the dough to rise properly. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a warm appliance.
• Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened for the filling. This will make it easier to spread evenly over the dough.
• Sharp Knife or Dental Floss: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into slices. This will prevent the slices from getting squished.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry bread. Bake until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through, but not overly browned.

Variations:

• Nuts: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon sugar filling for added texture and flavor.
• Raisins: Sprinkle raisins over the cinnamon sugar filling for a classic twist.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of the glaze, top the bread with a cream cheese frosting for a richer and tangier flavor. To make cream cheese frosting, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth.
• Apple Cinnamon: Add diced apples to the cinnamon sugar filling for an apple cinnamon version.
• Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar filling for a chocolatey treat.

Storage Instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store the cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion:

This Easy Cinnamon Bread recipe isn’t just another bread recipe; it’s a warm hug in every slice, a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. From its simple ingredients to its straightforward instructions, it’s designed to be accessible to bakers of all skill levels. But don’t let the ease fool you – the resulting bread is incredibly moist, tender, and bursting with that classic cinnamon-sugar swirl that we all crave.

I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect weekend baking project, a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch, and a thoughtful gift for friends and neighbors. Imagine the smiles you’ll bring when you present them with a loaf of this homemade goodness!

But the beauty of this Easy Cinnamon Bread lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own signature bake. For a richer flavor, try using brown butter in the dough and filling. The nutty notes of brown butter will complement the cinnamon beautifully. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delightful crunch.

Serving suggestions are endless! A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a classic choice. For a more decadent treat, drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the top while the bread is still warm. The tangy sweetness of the glaze will perfectly complement the cinnamon flavors. You can also toast slices and serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a truly indulgent dessert.

And don’t forget about breakfast! This Easy Cinnamon Bread makes incredible French toast. Simply dip slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, then cook them in a skillet until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a breakfast that’s sure to become a family favorite.

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it always turns out perfectly. I’ve tweaked it, experimented with it, and shared it with everyone I know, and the response is always the same: pure delight. It’s a recipe that I’m truly proud of, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a loaf of the most delicious Easy Cinnamon Bread you’ve ever tasted. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your serving suggestions in the comments below. Let’s create a community of cinnamon bread lovers and inspire each other with our baking adventures. Happy baking! I can’t wait to see what you create!