Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is the kind of bread that turns ordinary mornings into something magical. With a soft, buttery crumb and a ribbon of cinnamon sugar spiraling through the center, each slice is a celebration of warmth and sweetness. The aroma alone—rich with vanilla, cinnamon, and caramelized sugar—is enough to draw people into the kitchen.
This loaf is tender and moist, thanks to a milk-enriched dough and a touch of oil or butter. The swirl is made from a simple blend of cinnamon and sugar, layered into the dough before baking and creating a beautiful marbled effect when sliced. It’s perfect toasted with butter, served alongside tea, or gifted to neighbors and friends (who, as you’ve discovered, will immediately ask for the recipe).
Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend, a holiday brunch, or just to fill your home with the scent of cinnamon, this loaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Yields 2 medium loaves)
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp softened butter
Optional Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add oil (or butter), egg, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Lightly grease two medium loaf pans.
Step 3: Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough and divide into two equal portions. Roll each into a rectangle (about 8×12 inches). Spread softened butter over each, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Roll up tightly from the short end, pinching the seam to seal. Place seam-side down in the loaf pans.
Step 4: Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake loaves for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. If tops brown too quickly, tent with foil.
Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Step 6: Optional Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaves for a sweet finish.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Add Raisins or Nuts: Sprinkle over the cinnamon layer for texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be refrigerated overnight after first rise.
- Freezer Option: Wrap cooled loaves tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Serving Suggestion: Toast slices and spread with cream cheese or butter.