Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is the ultimate comforting treat with its soft, moist crumb and delightful swirl of cinnamon-sugar throughout. This easy-to-make quick bread doesn’t require yeast, making it a perfect recipe for busy mornings or an afternoon snack. The cinnamon adds a warm, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s simple to make, and the delicious aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen as it bakes!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together for the swirl. Set aside.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.
6. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter, then top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar swirl. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cinnamon-sugar through the batter by gently swirling it in a figure-eight motion.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
• Add Fruit: Try adding 1/2 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for extra sweetness and texture.
• Chocolate Swirl: For a chocolate twist, replace half of the cinnamon-sugar swirl with cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
• Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use non-dairy milk and butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cinnamon swirl quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them for a slightly crispier texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it the next day.

How do I make sure the cinnamon swirl stays in place?

To help the swirl stay in place, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter, but don’t overdo it. Just a few swirls should be enough to create a beautiful marbled effect.

Can I add a glaze to the bread?

Yes, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk (or vanilla) over the cooled bread for added sweetness.

Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?

Yes, you can omit the cinnamon and replace it with other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a different flavor profile.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the recipe and bake it in two loaf pans or a larger pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

What other spices can I add to the batter?

Cloves, nutmeg, or allspice would work well to add depth and warmth to the flavor of this bread.

Can I use a gluten-free flour blend?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work well in this recipe. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately if needed.

How can I make the bread more moist?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter, as that can result in a denser bread. Adding a little extra butter or a tablespoon of sour cream can also help keep the bread moist.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a delicious, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. With its tender crumb and the warm, sweet cinnamon swirl throughout, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this bread will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma and satisfy your cravings for something comforting and sweet.

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