Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

 

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• ¾ cup warm milk about 110°F

• ¼ cup warm water

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 2 tbsp softened butter

Optional Glaze (for topping):

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a small bowl, combine warm water, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add milk, yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead
   Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5–6 minutes).

4. First Rise
   Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).

5. Shape the Bread
   Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Spread with softened butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.

6. Roll & Pan
   Roll up the dough tightly then twist together. Pinch the seam closed and place it down in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

7. Second Rise
   Cover and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled.

8. Bake
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Cool & Glaze (optional)
   Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack. Drizzle with glaze if desired.