Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread – The Perfect Homemade Treat

If you’re looking for a recipe that fills your home with the cozy aroma of cinnamon, sugar, and freshly baked bread, then this Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread is for you. This recipe gives you a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust and a beautiful cinnamon-sugar swirl inside. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Bakery-quality at home – Soft, sweet, and beautiful swirls.
Versatile – Great for toasting, French toast, or snacking.
Beginner-friendly – Uses simple ingredients and clear steps.
Make-ahead friendly – Can be frozen and enjoyed later.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup (50 g) sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For Brushing:

1 tbsp melted butter
Optional: 2 tbsp granulated sugar for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Mix warm milk with sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Knead until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1–1.5 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Mix cinnamon and brown sugar. Keep butter ready.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

Roll dough into a rectangle, spread butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar. Roll tightly into a log.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the log in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for about 1 hour.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until golden. Brush with butter after baking.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Cool before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter, honey, or cream cheese.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Use warm (not hot) milk to keep yeast alive.
Add 1 tbsp flour to the filling to prevent gaps in the swirl.
For extra richness, swap half the milk for cream.
Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days or freeze up to 2 months.

Serving Ideas

Toasted with butter – simple and delicious.
French toast – perfect for brunch.
Sweet bread pudding – use leftover slices in desserts.

Variations

Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread – add ½ cup raisins to the filling.
Glazed Cinnamon Bread – drizzle with vanilla icing after baking.
Nutty Swirl Bread – sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans with the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute it directly.

2. Why did my swirl separate?
Adding a little flour to the filling helps it stick better.

3. Can I make the dough overnight?
Yes, let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight, then continue the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a timeless recipe that brings warmth, sweetness, and joy to the table. Whether you’re making it for your family, friends, or just to treat yourself, it’s one of those recipes you’ll keep baking again and again.