Introduction
Are you tired of bland, dry cinnamon breads that take forever to prepare, making you question if homemade is truly better? What if there was a way to create a soft, moist, and perfectly spiced Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread in a fraction of the time? This recipe delivers on that promise, offering a delightful treat for any occasion without the fuss.
Recipe Card
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Ingredients List
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for our tender bread.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps tenderize the crumb. For a richer, deeper flavor, consider using light brown sugar.
- Baking Powder: The leavening agent that makes this a “quick bread.”
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon: The heart of our cinnamon swirl. Use freshly ground for the most vibrant aroma.
- Milk: Adds moisture; whole milk provides the best richness, but any milk works. Almond milk is a great dairy-free option.
- Vegetable Oil: Contributes to the bread’s moist and tender texture. Melted unsalted butter can be used for a more buttery taste.
- Large Egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch that deepens all the other flavors.
Prep Time
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 40-45 minutes | Total: 50-55 minutes
This quick bread comes together ~20% faster than similar yeast-leavened recipes.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking, ensuring a clean release.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. A practical tip: whisking dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Add the vanilla extract and whisk again until smooth.
Step 4: Form the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so stop as soon as no dry streaks remain.
Step 5: Craft the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for the swirl. Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar. Create a swirl pattern by gently dragging a knife or skewer through the batter in a zig-zag motion. A visual tip: don’t over-swirl, a few gentle passes are enough to create distinct layers.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 1/12th of loaf):
- Calories: 210-230 kcal
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sugars: 15-18g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Sodium: 200-240mg
Healthy Alternatives
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar in both the batter and the swirl by 1/4 cup. You can also substitute with a sugar alternative, keeping in mind it might alter the texture slightly.
- Whole Wheat: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber, providing more nutrients without sacrificing too much tenderness.
- Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk instead of cow’s milk. Ensure your preferred alternative is plain and unflavored for the best result.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. This ensures the bread maintains its structure and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy a slice of Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread slightly warm with a smear of softened cream cheese or a drizzle of simple glaze. For an elegant presentation, sprinkle a touch of extra cinnamon or a few chopped nuts over the top before serving. A visual tip: arrange slices on a rustic wooden cutting board or a white ceramic plate to highlight its golden crust and inviting swirl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops the gluten too much, resulting in a tough and dense bread rather than a tender one. Mix until just combined.
- Under-baking: A raw center is unappetizing. Ensure a wooden skewer comes out clean, and don’t hesitate to add a few more minutes if needed.
- Not greasing and flouring the pan properly: This can lead to the bread sticking and crumbling when removed. Don’t skip this crucial step for easy release.
- Over-swirling the cinnamon mixture: Too much swirling can completely blend the cinnamon into the batter, losing the distinct swirl pattern. A light zig-zag is sufficient.
Storage Tips
Store Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain its freshness and moisture. For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread recipe is your passport to warm, comforting flavors without the usual time commitment. It’s an effortlessly delicious treat that brings joy to breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Don’t let your cravings wait any longer—bake a loaf today and fill your home with the delightful aroma of cinnamon!
FAQ
Q: Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this quick bread?
A: Yes, you can gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the batter before pouring it into the pan.
Q: How do I know if my quick bread is fully cooked?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean with no wet batter attached, it’s done.
Q: Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Absolutely! Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full, and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Q: My cinnamon swirl disappeared. What went wrong?
A: This usually happens if the batter is too thin or if the swirling was too aggressive, mixing the cinnamon sugar completely into the dough. Ensure batter consistency is right and swirl gently.
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the batter?
A: Yes, switching to brown sugar can add a deeper, molasses-y flavor and a slightly moister texture to the quick bread.
Q: What’s the best way to slice quick bread without it crumbling?
A: Ensure the bread is completely cooled before slicing for the cleanest cuts. A serrated knife works best.
You Might Also Like
If you enjoy this delightful cinnamon treat, you’ll love starting your day with these other quick and easy breakfasts. Explore our recipe for Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes for another comforting morning meal. For a hearty and quick snack, try these Mini Apple Pies and Cinnamon Cups. And for another wonderfully simple bread that melts in your mouth, discover this easy-to-follow recipe for 3-Ingredient Cloud Bread.
For more inspiring baking ideas, check out this classic recipe for traditional breads on Allrecipes. If you’re looking to broaden your quick bread repertoire, Bon Appétit also has an excellent collection of quick bread recipes that might just become your next kitchen favorite.
Food lover & recipe creator sharing simple, protein-rich recipes for busy lives.