Rustic Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Cozy Homestyle Rustic Cinnamon Bread Recipe for Baking Fans

Warm, golden aromas of freshly baked cinnamon bread swirl through kitchens, promising comfort in every slice.

Generations of bakers have perfected this rustic cinnamon bread recipe, blending simple ingredients with love and tradition.

The delicate balance of soft dough and rich, spicy cinnamon creates a sensory experience that beckons everyone to the table.

Each knead and fold tells a story of home-cooked warmth and nostalgia.

Butter melting into those tender, swirled layers transforms an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe welcomes you with open arms.

Embrace the joy of baking and let the magic of homemade bread fill your home with happiness.

How to Make Cinnamon Bread with Swirls of Flavor

  • Awaken the Yeast Magic

Dive into your baking adventure by stirring warm milk, sugar, and yeast together. Let this mixture bubble and bloom for a few minutes until it looks frothy and alive.

  • Create Dough Perfection

Blend flour and salt in a spacious bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and a cracked egg. Mix until a soft dough emerges. Knead the dough on a flour-dusted surface, transforming it into a smooth, stretchy companion.

  • First Dough Nap

Tuck your dough into a greased bowl, wrap it gently with a towel, and let it rest in a cozy spot. Watch it double in size over the next hour or so.

  • Sprinkle Cinnamon Charm

Whisk together sugars and cinnamon, creating a sweet, fragrant mixture that’ll make your kitchen smell incredible.

  • Roll and Wrap

Gently deflate the risen dough and roll it into a rectangular canvas. Spread softened butter across the surface, then rain down your cinnamon mixture evenly.

  • Craft the Loaf

Roll the dough tightly from the short end, creating a beautiful swirl. Seal the edges and nestle it seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.

  • Final Rise

Cover the pan and let the dough puff up one more time, transforming into a pillowy wonder.

  • Bake to Golden Glory

Heat the oven to 350F and bake until the bread turns a gorgeous golden brown. If the top gets too dark, drape some foil over it.

  • Cool and Devour

Let the bread rest briefly in the pan, then transfer to a cooling rack. Slice, share, and savor every delicious bite!

Tips for Cinnamon Bread That’s Moist and Sweet

  • Master Your Cinnamon Loaf
  • Ensure milk is precisely warm (110-115°F) to activate yeast without killing it. Water too hot will destroy yeast, while too cool prevents proper fermentation.
  • Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly. A well-kneaded dough creates a soft, pillowy bread with perfect crumb structure. Use windowpane test to check dough elasticity.
  • Choose a draft-free, warm spot like near a preheated oven for dough rising. Consistent temperature ensures even rise and optimal bread volume.
  • Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free blend for celiac-friendly version. Use almond milk for dairy-free alternative and coconut oil instead of butter to accommodate various dietary needs.
  • Wrap completely cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in airtight container. Keeps fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze up to one month for longer preservation.

Serving Cinnamon Bread Warm with Butter or Glaze

  • Cozy Breakfast Companion: Pair this warm cinnamon bread with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea for a delightful morning treat that wakes up your senses.
  • Sweet Morning Spread: Slather cream cheese, butter, or homemade jam on thick slices to elevate the bread's already delicious cinnamon flavor and create a luxurious breakfast experience.
  • Decadent Dessert Transformation: Transform leftover bread into a delectable bread pudding or French toast by cubing the slices and mixing with eggs, milk, and additional cinnamon for a rich, indulgent dessert that maximizes every crumb.
  • Gifting Delight: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper with a cute twine bow for a heartwarming homemade gift that shows friends and family how much you care about sharing something special and delicious.

How to Keep Cinnamon Bread Soft for Days

  • Store the cinnamon bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap. Refrigeration keeps the bread fresh for 4-5 days, maintaining its soft texture and delightful cinnamon flavor.
  • Keep the bread at room temperature in a sealed container for 2-3 days. Place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess, ensuring each slice remains deliciously tender.
  • Wrap the bread completely in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving, restoring its original warmth and softness.
  • Cut the bread into individual slices before freezing. This clever trick allows you to remove and thaw only the amount you need, preventing unnecessary waste and maintaining optimal freshness for future enjoyment.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 12

Ingredients That Make Cinnamon Bread Smell Like Home

For Yeast Activation:
  • Warm Milk: Provides the perfect environment for yeast to bloom and create soft, airy bread.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast, helping it activate and create a fluffy texture.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Magical ingredient that makes the bread rise and develop a rich, complex flavor.
For Dough Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the sturdy foundation for the bread's structure and texture.
  • Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
  • Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a golden, soft exterior.
For Filling and Topping:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Create a sweet, caramelized cinnamon swirl with depth of flavor.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Delivers warm, aromatic spice that defines the bread's character.
  • Softened Butter: Helps spread the cinnamon sugar and creates a luscious filling.
  • Optional Topping Butter: Adds shine and extra richness to the finished bread.

Tools That Help You Bake Cinnamon Bread Just Right

  • Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining dry ingredients and kneading dough.
  • Small Mixing Bowls: Perfect for preparing yeast mixture and cinnamon filling.
  • Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Helpful for easy dough kneading, but a hand can work too.
  • Rolling Pin: Crucial for rolling out dough into a smooth rectangle.
  • 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: Necessary for shaping and baking the bread.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Clean Kitchen Towel: Used for covering dough during rising stages.
  • Wire Cooling Rack: Helps bread cool evenly after baking.
  • Aluminum Foil: Optional for covering bread if top browns too quickly.
Print
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Rustic Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Rustic Cinnamon Bread Recipe


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4.7 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Homemade cinnamon bread delivers warm comfort straight from grandmother’s kitchen, promising sweet nostalgia with each fragrant slice. Delicate swirls of spice and sugary layers invite you to savor a cherished classic that whispers comfort and home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (720 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsps or 7 g) active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (73 g) brown sugar
  • ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsps ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon sugar

Instructions

  1. Yeast Activation: Blend warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a vessel, allowing the mixture to transform into a frothy concoction within 5-10 minutes.
  2. Dough Creation: Integrate flour and salt in a spacious mixing container. Incorporate yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, kneading thoroughly on a flour-dusted surface until achieving a smooth, resilient texture. Utilize a stand mixer with dough hook as an alternative method.
  3. Initial Proofing: Transfer dough to a greased receptacle, drape with a pristine cloth, and permit rising in a cozy environment until volume doubles (approximately 1-1.5 hours).
  4. Filling Preparation: Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a compact mixing bowl.
  5. Bread Shaping and Filling: Deflate risen dough, extend into a rectangular form, generously coat with softened butter, then distribute cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the surface.
  6. Rolling and Positioning: Tightly coil dough from the shorter edge, securing seams. Position rolled loaf seam-side downward in a greased baking vessel.
  7. Final Proofing: Envelop with a cloth, allowing expansion for 30-45 minutes until visibly puffy.
  8. Thermal Preparation: Calibrate oven to 350F (175C).
  9. Baking Process: Roast until golden-hued, approximately 30-35 minutes. Shield with aluminum foil if surface darkens excessively.
  10. Finishing Touches: Lavish warm bread with melted butter and sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar if desired.
  11. Serving: Allow cooling within the pan briefly, then transfer to a wire cooling platform. Slice and savor the aromatic creation.

Notes

  • Ensure milk is warm (not hot) around 110°F to prevent killing the yeast, which can make bread dense and prevent proper rising.
  • Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly, creating a smooth, elastic texture that gives bread its soft, airy structure and prevents crumbly results.
  • Choose a draft-free, warm spot like near a preheated oven or inside a turned-off oven with the light on to help dough rise consistently and evenly.
  • Cover dough with a damp cloth during rising to maintain moisture, preventing the surface from drying out and ensuring a soft, tender final loaf.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

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