Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite like the smell of warm cinnamon swirling through your kitchen. This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is the perfect treat for those cozy autumn mornings, or any time you crave a sweet and spiced delight. With a tender crumb and a luscious swirl of cinnamon sugar, this quick bread is incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be a staple in your baking repertoire!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is not just another baked good; it’s a warm hug in bread form. It’s quick to whip up, requiring no complex techniques or fancy equipment. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. The balance of flavors, with the sweetness of sugar and the warmth of cinnamon, creates a delightful experience that pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or tea. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy any time of day—snack, dessert, or breakfast!
Ingredients at a Glance
To make this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1-1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons milk
Equipment at a Glance
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Whisk – to mix wet ingredients smoothly.
- Loaf pan – to shape your bread.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement.
- Rubber spatula – for folding in the batter.
- Cooling rack – to let your bread cool properly.
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread, Made Easy
Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1-1/4 cups of granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vanilla extract, egg, and canola oil. Whisk until everything is well blended and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar with the ground cinnamon. This mixture will create that irresistible swirl.
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar on top. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking time to avoid over-browning.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
Enjoy your Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread in a variety of ways:
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a cozy breakfast.
- Toast slices and top with cream cheese for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Pair with a warm cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
- Enjoy it as a dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pro Perspective
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is incredibly forgiving, making it an ideal recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture. For a fun twist, feel free to experiment with different spices—adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Remember, the key to a perfect quick bread is to avoid overmixing, which helps maintain that tender crumb everyone loves!
Storage & Reheat Guide
To store your Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast them lightly for a warm treat again.
Questions People Ask
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use buttermilk. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1-1/4 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
How can I make this quick bread healthier?
You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute if desired. Adding in fruits like mashed bananas or applesauce can also keep the bread moist while cutting down on sugar.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give the bread a lovely crunch. Chocolate chips can also be a delicious addition, adding a sweet surprise to each bite. Just be sure not to overload the batter to maintain the bread’s structure.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best way to check if your Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Next Up in Your Queue
- Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
- Lemon Blueberry Muffins
- Pumpkin Spice Bread
- Zucchini Bread with Walnuts
The Last Word
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a delightful treat that will fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply enjoying on your own. Easy to make and utterly delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every slice of this magical bread!
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1-1/4 cups of granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3: In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vanilla extract, egg, and canola oil. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a rubber spatula.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar with the ground cinnamon for the swirl.
- Step 6: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar over it. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Swirl with a knife.
- Step 7: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 8: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- For longer storage, freeze wrapped bread for up to 3 months.
- Reheat slices in the microwave or toast them for a warm treat.
