Cinnamon swirl bread is the perfect fusion of cozy sweetness and comforting texture, delivering warm spice in every tender bite. It’s a classic loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
This quick bread recipe comes together effortlessly, with a moist vanilla batter and a generous ribbon of cinnamon sugar marbled throughout for extra charm.
What You’ll Need for This Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl Bread
- All-purpose flour – Forms the soft, tender structure of the loaf.
- White sugar – Sweetens the batter and creates the cinnamon swirl that caramelizes beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice that defines the swirl.
- Baking powder – Lifts the bread for a light, airy crumb.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Egg – Binds everything together and adds richness.
- Milk – Moistens the batter and keeps the texture delicate.
- Vegetable oil – Contributes to the loaf’s ultra-moist texture without overpowering flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread – A Quick Glimpse
Start by preparing your loaf pan and preheating the oven to the perfect temperature.
Whisk the dry ingredients together in one bowl and mix the wet in another. Gently combine the two to keep the batter light.
Layer half the batter into the pan, then sprinkle in cinnamon sugar for that signature swirl. Repeat and use a knife to gently marble the mix.
Bake until golden and fragrant, then cool before wrapping to let the flavors settle overnight. Slice thick and enjoy every cozy, spiced bite.
Tips, Tricks, and Cinnamon Kicks
For the fluffiest texture, avoid overmixing the batter—just stir until the flour disappears. Letting the loaf rest overnight wrapped in foil isn’t just tradition; it deepens the flavor and keeps it wonderfully moist.
Try swapping milk with buttermilk for a slight tang, or add a handful of chopped nuts to the swirl for extra texture. Love raisins? Toss some into the batter for a cinnamon-raisin twist.
For a dessert-like variation, drizzle a vanilla glaze over the cooled loaf—especially if serving for brunch or gifting.
Keeping Your Cinnamon Swirl Bread Fresh & Fabulous
To store, wrap the completely cooled loaf in foil or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the whole loaf or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Thaw at room temperature or microwave slices for a few seconds to revive that just-baked warmth. Avoid refrigeration, which can dry out the loaf quickly.
This cinnamon swirl bread is the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again—whether it’s for a cozy breakfast, sweet afternoon snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 ⅓ cups white sugar divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or oil. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of the sugar with the cinnamon; set this mixture aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, blend the egg, milk, and vegetable oil, then pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is just combined. Transfer half of the batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar blend over it. Pour in the remaining batter and top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. Using a knife, carefully swirl through the batter to create a marbled effect. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For best flavor and texture, wrap the loaf in foil and let it rest overnight before slicing.
