Introduction
Cinnamon Bread is a beloved baked good that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. With its soft, fluffy texture and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar, this bread is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a sweet treat for dessert.
The combination of sweet cinnamon filling and buttery dough creates a delightful swirl that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. This recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, Cinnamon Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table and savor its delightful flavors!
Ingredients
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon butter, softened (for spreading)
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Add melted butter, salt, and eggs. Mix well.
Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and brown sugar.
Shape the Bread:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Roll and Slice:
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
Slice the log into equal pieces (about 1-2 inches thick).
Second Rise:
Place the slices in a greased loaf pan, cut side up. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Method of Storage
To keep your Cinnamon Bread fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
Allow the bread to cool completely at room temperature.
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing:
For longer storage, you can freeze the cinnamon bread.
Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Label with the date, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
Microwave:
For a quick reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Toaster:
Toast individual slices for a crispy exterior and warm interior.
Enjoying Leftovers
Serve the reheated cinnamon bread with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam for an extra treat.
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your Cinnamon Bread for days to come, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful!