If you’ve ever dreamed of filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and warm, buttery bread, this Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread is exactly what you need. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat, this bread is soft, fluffy, and packed with layers of cinnamon sugar goodness. Plus, it’s easier to make than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Bread

✅ Soft & Fluffy Texture – A perfect balance of light, airy bread with a tender crumb.
✅ Irresistible Cinnamon Swirls – Buttery cinnamon sugar ribbons throughout each slice.
✅ Perfect for Toasting – Enjoy it plain or with a smear of butter or cream cheese.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – This bread stays fresh for days and freezes beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:

For the Egg Wash:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
  2. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer with a dough hook), combine the flour and salt.
  2. Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter.
  3. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. If kneading by hand, flour your surface lightly and knead until the dough is smooth.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
  2. Melt the butter and set aside.

Step 4: Roll & Shape the Dough

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 9×18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  2. Brush the melted butter over the dough.
  3. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the surface.
  4. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the shorter side for a tighter swirl.
  5. Pinch the edges to seal and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 5: Second Rise

  1. Cover the dough loosely and let it rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Brush the top with an egg wash (whisked egg yolk + milk) for a golden crust.
  3. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  4. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Swirl Bread

🔹 Use Fresh Yeast – If your yeast doesn’t foam in step 1, it may be expired. Use fresh yeast for best results.
🔹 Don’t Overfill with Cinnamon Sugar – Too much filling can cause gaps in the swirls. Stick to the suggested amount!
🔹 Let It Cool Before Slicing – Cutting into warm bread can make it gummy. Be patient for that perfect slice!
🔹 Store Properly – Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

How to Serve & Enjoy Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can let the shaped dough rest in the fridge overnight for a slow rise. Just bring it to room temp before baking.

❓ Can I add raisins or nuts?
Absolutely! Sprinkle ½ cup of raisins or chopped nuts over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling the dough.

❓ Can I freeze this bread?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap it in plastic and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before enjoying.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread Awaits!

There’s nothing quite like homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread to make your home feel warm and inviting. Whether you enjoy it fresh, toasted, or transformed into a special treat, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. 🍞✨

Ready to bake? Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! 👇 Happy Baking! 😊