Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

This recipe yields a soft, fluffy bread with a delicious cinnamon-sugar filling.

Ingredients:

  • For the Dough:
    • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
    • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
    • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • For the Filling:
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
    • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
    • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon  

Instructions:

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
  2. Combine Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
  6. Roll and Fill: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 12×15-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter mixture evenly over the dough.
  7. Roll: Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough up jelly-roll style.
  8. Slice: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 12 equal slices.
  9. Arrange: Place the slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  10. Second Rise: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  11. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  12. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations:

  • For extra flavor, add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling.
  • Glaze the cooled bread with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
  • Make it a braided loaf: Divide the rolled dough in half lengthwise, then braid the two halves together before cutting and arranging.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread!

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