Hey friends! Today, I’m excited to share a baking recipe that’s pure comfort in loaf form — Soft Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Imagine a golden, tender loaf with hypnotic spirals of cinnamon sugar running through each slice. Toasted with a pat of butter or enjoyed fresh from the oven, this bread is the kind of treat that makes your kitchen smell like a bakery and your heart feel full.
Why This Bread Feels Like Home
I first baked this bread on a chilly weekend morning when the house felt too quiet and the coffee needed a companion. The moment I sliced into the warm loaf and saw those cinnamon swirls, I knew I had found a new favorite. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and has that nostalgic flavor that reminds me of cozy breakfasts and handwritten recipe cards.
What makes it special?
- Yeast-based for that classic soft texture.
- Swirled with cinnamon sugar — no dry bites here!
- Beginner-friendly with simple pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for gifting or freezing — makes two loaves!
Recipe at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Rise Time | ~2.5 hours total |
| Bake Time | 30–35 minutes |
| Total Time | ~3.5 hours |
| Skill Level | Easy to moderate |
| Servings | 2 loaves (16 slices each) |
| Tools Needed | Mixing bowls, whisk, loaf pans |
| Make-Ahead Tips | Freeze one loaf for later enjoyment |
Ingredients List & Substitutions
Dough
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
Sub: instant yeast (adjust rise time) - ⅓ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 cup warm milk
Sub: almond or oat milk for dairy-free - ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Sub: vegan butter - 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 5½ to 6 cups all-purpose flour
Sub: bread flour for chewier texture
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy — this means your yeast is alive and ready!
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Add warm milk, sugar, eggs, butter, salt, and 2½ cups flour to the yeast mixture.
- Beat until smooth.
- Gradually stir in remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead & First Rise
- Knead on a floured surface (or with a stand mixer) for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled — about 1 hour.
Step 4: Shape the Loaves
- Punch down dough and divide in half.
- Roll each half into an 18×8-inch rectangle.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle evenly over each rectangle.
- Roll up from the short side and pinch seams to seal.
- Place seam-side down in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Step 5: Second Rise & Bake
- Cover and let rise again until doubled — about 1½ hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Optional: Brush warm loaves with melted butter for extra shine.
Serving & Storage Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Serve Warm | Slice and toast with butter or honey. |
| Fridge Storage | Up to 5 days in airtight container. |
| Freezer Friendly | Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. |
| Reheat | Toast slices or warm whole loaf at 300°F |
Troubleshooting & FAQ
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Bread didn’t rise | Check yeast freshness and water temperature. |
| Swirls separated | Roll tightly and pinch seams well. |
| Dry texture | Don’t overbake — check at 30 minutes. |
| Dense loaf | Knead thoroughly and allow full rise time. |
Variations to Try
- Raisin Swirl: Add ½ cup soaked raisins to the cinnamon layer.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle cooled loaf with maple icing for a sweet finish.
Final Thoughts
This Soft Cinnamon Swirl Bread is more than just a recipe — it’s a warm, homemade moment waiting to happen. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch or just want to fill your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon, this loaf delivers every time.
Give it a try, and let your oven do the magic. I’d love to hear how it turns out — and what creative twists you add!
Happy baking, friends!