Homemade Cinnamon Bread

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and 1 tablespoon sugar. Sprinkle yeast over and let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms (stand mixer with dough hook or by hand).
3. Knead Dough: Knead on a floured surface 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic (or 4-5 minutes in a stand mixer).
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Melt 3 tablespoons butter. Set aside.

3. Shape the Dough

1. Roll Dough: Punch down risen dough and roll into a 9×18 inch rectangle.
2. Add Filling: Brush dough with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, leaving a border.
3. Roll Up: Roll up tightly from the short end, pinch to seal, and place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

4. Second Rise

1. Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes, or until doubled.

5. Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Egg Wash & Topping: Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar (optional).
3. Bake: Bake 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

6. Cool and Serve

1. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Notes

• Roll dough tightly for a defined swirl and to prevent gaps.
• Rising time varies with temperature. Use a warm oven (off) if needed.
• Use warm, not hot, milk to avoid killing the yeast.

Variations

• Raisin Cinnamon Bread: Add 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries to the filling.
• Nutty Cinnamon Bread: Add 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Iced Cinnamon Bread: Drizzle with powdered sugar and milk icing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I store cinnamon bread?

Store in an airtight container or wrapped at room temperature up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, add it directly to the dry ingredients.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Substitute up to half, but the bread may be denser.

Enjoy this sweet, fragrant, and comforting bread! Perfect for any time of day.