Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with every sweet, swirl-filled bite of this Cinnamon Bread. The moment you slice through the golden, cinnamon-flecked loaf and catch that intoxicating aroma, you’ll understand why this is such a treasured recipe. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast treat, a cozy afternoon snack, or a dessert to impress, Cinnamon Bread checks all the boxes with its tender crumb, enchanting swirls, and optional glaze for the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Bread is its simplicity—every ingredient is easy to find but absolutely vital in creating its unforgettable flavor and irresistible texture. From the tangy buttermilk to the cinnamon-sugar swirl, each element plays its part in making this loaf special.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation of the bread, providing structure without heaviness.
- Baking powder: Adds lift and ensures every bite is perfectly tender.
- Baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk for extra rise and softness.
- Salt: Just a touch brings out all the other flavors beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the bread and the cinnamon swirl for a just-right finish.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, giving warmth, spice, and that signature aroma.
- Buttermilk: Makes the crumb ultra-moist and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the loaf light and tender, never dry.
- Large eggs: Bind the mixture and add richness for that satisfying bite.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors for a comforting, homemade taste.
- For the cinnamon swirl: More sugar and cinnamon for those dreamy, bakery-style ribbons.
- For the glaze (optional): Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a glossy, sweet topping.
How to Make Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
First things first, set yourself up for success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan so your Cinnamon Bread pops out easily later. There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of knowing a loaf is about to come to life in your oven.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon. This not only evenly distributes the leaveners and spices but guarantees that each bite is flavorful and fluffy. Be generous with your whisking here—it makes a big difference!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended. This wet team creates that sought-after tender crumb and balanced depth of flavor.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir with a spatula or wooden spoon just until everything is combined. Don’t overdo it—a few lumps are perfectly fine and keep your Cinnamon Bread soft instead of dense.
Step 5: Make That Signature Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon swirl sugar and ground cinnamon. Pour half of your bread batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the swirl mixture over the surface. Top with the rest of the batter and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Now, use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture through the batter to create those gorgeous ribbons inside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, until your kitchen smells like heaven and a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling—this step helps set the crumb and keeps it moist.
Step 7: Finish with (Optional) Glaze
For those with an extra-sweet tooth, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle this glorious glaze over your cooled Cinnamon Bread for a bakery-worthy finish that everyone will want a second slice of.
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread

Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar, a few extra shakes of cinnamon, or that glossy vanilla glaze all enhance the Cinnamon Bread’s warm, rustic look and inviting aroma. For even more flair, top with a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cinnamon Bread with fresh fruit, creamy Greek yogurt, or alongside a steaming mug of coffee or chai tea. These sides keep things light and let the sweet-spicy loaf shine front and center.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your Cinnamon Bread thick for French toast, cube it for sweet croutons on a breakfast parfait, or package mini loaves as homemade gifts. However you serve it, the swirl pattern steals the show on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Cinnamon Bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container to keep it soft and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, freeze the cooled loaf (whole or sliced) wrapped securely in plastic and placed in a freezer bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a cinnamon fix.
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked magic, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or pop them in a toaster oven until heated through. Glaze after reheating for the dreamiest finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast, Dessert
You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf, but keep in mind it may be slightly more dense. Stick with all-purpose flour for the classic fluffy results.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
Easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit 5 minutes before using. This hack delivers the same tender crumb and subtle tang as store-bought buttermilk.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Your Cinnamon Bread is ready when the top is golden, and a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t be tempted to overbake—moist is the goal.
Can the glaze be flavored or colored?
Absolutely! You can add a touch of maple syrup for a deeper sweetness or use a drop of food coloring for festive occasions. Citrus zest also adds a fresh twist to the glaze.
Is this Cinnamon Bread suitable for freezing in advance for gifts?
Yes! Bake, cool, and wrap the loaves well. Add the glaze after thawing for the prettiest presentation, and you’ll have a fabulous ready-to-gift treat that’s always well received.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re serving it at brunch, gifting a loaf, or just enjoying a cozy snack, this Cinnamon Bread brings joy with every bite. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen—give it a try and let those warm cinnamon swirls work their magic!
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Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Bread recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. The moist and flavorful bread features a delicious cinnamon swirl and can be topped with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Main Bread:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Prepare Swirl: Mix cinnamon swirl sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Layer batter and swirl mixture in the pan. Use a knife to swirl through the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Optional Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cooled bread.
Notes
- To make your own buttermilk, combine 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg