Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe

There is nothing quite like waking up to the warm, intoxicating aroma of freshly baked cinnamon swirls right in your own kitchen, and this Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe brings all that joy wrapped up in a beautiful loaf. It’s the perfect balance of fluffy bread, that sweet cinnamon sugar swirl, and the buttery streusel on top, making every bite irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend brunch or an anytime treat, this recipe promises simplicity without skimping on that classic cinnamon roll flavor we all adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward achieving that perfect tender crumb and delicious cinnamon layers. Each component plays a key role, from the flour giving structure to the cinnamon and brown sugar delivering that signature flavor and warmth.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of this bread, providing a tender but sturdy texture; use gluten-free 1:1 flour replacement if needed.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy throughout.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the spice of cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice, creating those beloved warm, aromatic swirl layers.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness to the batter.
• Brown sugar: Adds moistness and depth of flavor in layers and streusel topping.
• Whole milk: Moistens the batter and contributes to a tender crumb.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist without making it heavy.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and moisture, ensuring a soft, delicate texture—can be swapped with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the streusel, it creates a delicious crumbly topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft bread.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Start by heating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s perfectly preheated for baking. Line your 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and give it a light spray of nonstick spray. This simple prep will make sure your bread comes out cleanly and in one beautiful piece.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Setting this aside lets these dry ingredients get ready to be folded gently into the wet, keeping your batter light and airy.

Step 3: Combine Cinnamon Sugar for Swirls

In another small bowl, stir together granulated sugar and cinnamon. This will become the sweet, spicy magic swirling through the bread—a simple mix but so crucial to that classic cinnamon roll taste.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and brown sugar until smooth. Then add whole milk, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together thoroughly to create a luscious, velvety batter.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently add your flour and baking powder mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir just until everything is combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough. You want a smooth but tender batter.

Step 6: Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar

This is where the beauty happens. Pour one-third of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a third of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat these layers twice more, ending with batter topped by cinnamon sugar. The layers bake together to create that irresistible swirl pattern when sliced.

Step 7: Stir Up the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix the extra flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms crumbly clumps. This streusel adds a crunchy, buttery topping that’s the perfect contrast to the soft cinnamon roll bread inside.

Step 8: Add Streusel and Bake

Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly atop the layered batter. Now pop your loaf pan into the oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a golden, inviting crust.

Step 9: Cool and Unmold

Once baked, let the bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan to set up before carefully lifting it out using the parchment paper. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step lets the crumb finish setting, making it easier to slice and enjoy.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe

Garnishes

While the bread is delicious on its own, adding a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting takes it over the top. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for an inviting finish that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai. For brunch, consider serving alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cinnamon roll bread thickly and toast it lightly for an extra crunch that brings out its flavors. You can also turn it into French toast, layering slices with cream cheese or syrup for a decadent breakfast or dessert treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cinnamon roll bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Freezing

The Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, thaw frozen slices at room temperature or warm them gently in a toaster oven or microwave until soft and fragrant, just like fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like Cup4Cup for a delightful gluten-free version that maintains the bread’s tenderness and flavor.

Is it possible to use a different type of milk?

Yes, whole milk gives the best texture, but you can use any milk you have on hand including almond, oat, or soy milk. Just note that non-dairy milks may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins to the cinnamon sugar layers adds a delightful crunch and sweetness variation. Sprinkle them evenly between layers before baking.

How thick should I slice the cinnamon roll bread?

Slicing about ½ to ¾ inch thick lets you enjoy those perfect cinnamon swirls in every bite. Thinner slices are great for toasting, while thicker slices make a hearty snack or dessert.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the batter a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge, but layering and baking fresh always yields the best texture and flavor. Just bring the batter to room temperature before assembling and baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about baking the Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe and sharing it with people you care about. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet sugar layers, and buttery streusel topping creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this simple recipe can turn an ordinary day into something deliciously memorable.

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