This easy recipe for old-fashioned cinnamon quick bread is one of our favorite things to bake on chilly mornings, and it’s perfect for sharing over a warm cup of coffee. There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade cinnamon bread, especially when it’s a quick bread recipe that fills the house with the cozy aroma of cinnamon sugar.
Unlike a yeast bread that requires rising time, this simple recipe uses baking soda for a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls or simply love the taste of sweet bread, this homemade cinnamon swirl bread will quickly become a staple in your home.
We Love this Cinnamon Quick Bread
We love this recipe not only because it’s easy but also for its versatility. This cinnamon quick bread can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, sliced and toasted with a pat of butter, or even transformed into delicious cinnamon toast or French toast for a morning treat.
Easy Cinnamon Quick Bread Recipe
It’s a great recipe for any time of year, especially on Christmas morning or as a warm treat on a cozy night. And if you manage to save any leftovers, storing them is a breeze with an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for a perfect sweet treat next time. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, you’ll have this baked bread ready to serve in just about an hour.
Easy Old Fashioned Cinnamon Quick Bread Recipe
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup White Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar divided
- 1 Tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1 Cup Whole Milk room temperature
- 1/2 Cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 Cup Butter melted
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Optional: golden raisins for added texture
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This also makes 3 mini loaf pans.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the brown sugar with the cinnamon to create a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Set aside.1 Tablespoon Ground Cinnamon, 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining white sugar, baking soda, and salt.2 Cups All-Purpose Flour, 1 Cup White Sugar, 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda, 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.1 Cup Whole Milk, 1/2 Cup Sour Cream, 1/4 Cup Butter, 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed or with a wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Layer the Cinnamon Swirl. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add the rest of the batter on top, then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon mixture. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon through the batter.Optional: golden raisins
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your delicious cinnamon quick bread fresh, toasted, or saved for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful.
Notes
Nutrition
Tips for a Cinnamon Swirl
This cinnamon swirl bread recipe is a classic you’ll come back to time and again, whether for a weekend treat, a holiday gathering, or just to have a little bit of homemade sweetness on hand.
To achieve a beautiful swirl in the bread, layer the batter and cinnamon-sugar mixture carefully. Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add the remaining batter on top and use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon throughout.
A light, wavy motion will help create those lovely cinnamon ribbons without overmixing, ensuring the swirl remains distinct. For a more even distribution of cinnamon flavor, you could also use a pastry brush to spread the cinnamon mixture evenly across the first batter layer.
Easy Recipe Variations
For a little extra texture, you can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the batter before baking.
Golden raisins are another tasty addition, lending a slight chewiness and natural sweetness to the bread.
A tablespoon of lemon juice can add a subtle brightness to the flavor, balancing the richness of the cinnamon and brown sugar.
For even more depth, a dash of almond or vanilla extract adds warmth to the overall flavor profile. These simple variations make it easy to adapt the recipe to your own preferences or to try something new next time!
Tips for Keeping the Bread Moist
To ensure your cinnamon quick bread stays as moist and tender as possible, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the wet ingredients. These ingredients add extra richness and moisture to the bread without making it too dense. If you don’t have sour cream or yogurt on hand, you can also add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter. When storing, wrapping the bread in plastic wrap or using an airtight container will help retain moisture. This way, even if you’re keeping it for a few days, the bread stays soft and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon quick bread is delightful on its own but can also be enjoyed in a few delicious ways. For an indulgent breakfast or snack, try spreading a little cream cheese on each slice—it pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor and adds a creamy richness.
To make an easy cinnamon toast, simply toast a slice until warm and golden, then spread with butter for a classic treat. This bread also makes fantastic French toast! Just dip each slice in your favorite French toast batter, cook as usual, and enjoy the sweet, cinnamony flavors in every bite.
How to Store Cinnamon Bread
To keep your homemade cinnamon quick bread fresh and delicious, here are the best ways to store it.
Room Temperature. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerator. If you’d like to extend the freshness, you can store the bread in the refrigerator. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in an airtight container. Refrigerated, it should last up to 5-7 days, though it may lose a bit of moisture.
Freezer. For longer storage, this bread freezes very well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then wrap again in aluminum foil, and place in a freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen cinnamon bread will keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the toaster for a quick treat.
These storage options make it easy to enjoy your delicious cinnamon bread anytime, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen.
Mini Loaves for Gifting
This recipe is perfect for making two mini loaves, which are wonderful as homemade gifts for friends and family.
If you use smaller, 3×5-inch mini loaf pans, this recipe will yield approximately two mini loaves. To bake mini loaves, divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and adjust the baking time to around 30-35 minutes. Check the mini loaves with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
Once baked, wrap each mini loaf in plastic wrap and then in a layer of parchment paper or place it in a small decorative bag for a beautiful and thoughtful food gift.
For the holidays, you could add a small tag or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
hhvicky
Tuesday 12th of November 2024
My family loved this!