Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a delightful, easy-to-make treat that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. This quick bread combines a moist, tender crumb with a sweet cinnamon swirl that adds the perfect touch of spice and sweetness to every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a comforting classic that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Delicious cinnamon swirl: A perfect balance of sweet and spice in every slice.
- Moist and tender: Soft crumb texture that stays fresh for days.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for batter)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- In a small bowl, combine the 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the batter to create a cinnamon pattern.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Tips
Serve Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a pat of butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm slices in a toaster or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Timing Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (approx.)
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
Optional Variations
- Nutty crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture.
- Spiced twist: Mix 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg or cardamom into the cinnamon sugar swirl for added warmth.
- Fruit addition: Fold in 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity surprise.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid if needed.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based milk and replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Related Recipes
- Banana Nut Quick Bread
- Pumpkin Spice Loaf
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Conclusion
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a simple yet irresistibly flavorful treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Its moist texture and warm cinnamon flavor make it a comforting favorite that’s quick to prepare and sure to please. Whether for breakfast or a cozy snack, this Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a must-try recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
A: Yes, brown sugar can be used for a richer, more caramel-like flavor in both the batter and the cinnamon swirl.
Q: How do I know when the quick bread is fully baked?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.
Q: Can I make this bread in a muffin tin instead of a loaf pan?
A: Absolutely! Bake muffins at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked bread wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
📖 Recipe
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Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is moist and tender with a delicious sweet cinnamon sugar swirl throughout. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts or an afternoon snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup granulated sugar (for swirl)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirl)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs, then add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just mixed.
5. Mix sugar and cinnamon for the swirl in a small bowl.
6. Pour half the batter into pan; sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar.
7. Pour remaining batter on top; sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar.
8. Swirl gently with a knife.
9. Bake 50–60 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to wire rack.
Notes
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freeze wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg