Cinnamon Roll Bread brings together everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-slice loaf form. With soft, tender bread swirled generously with cinnamon sugar and topped with a light glaze, this recipe offers warmth, sweetness, and comfort in every bite. It fills the kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of cinnamon as it bakes, making it almost impossible to wait for it to cool.
The first time I made this loaf, I wanted the flavor of cinnamon rolls without the extra time required for rolling and shaping individual buns. The swirl effect inside the bread created beautiful layers, and each slice revealed a ribbon of cinnamon sugar throughout. I once added a thin drizzle of cream cheese glaze over the top, and it enhanced the indulgent feel perfectly. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, Cinnamon Roll Bread is a delightful treat that feels both nostalgic and convenient.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Bread delivers the signature cinnamon-sugar flavor in a simplified format. There is no need to shape individual rolls, making preparation quicker and easier.
The loaf stays soft and moist for several days, making it ideal for make-ahead baking. Each slice showcases a beautiful swirl that makes it visually appealing as well as delicious.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or topped with glaze. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and is suitable for both casual mornings and special occasions.
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Cinnamon Roll Bread: A Swirled, Sweet Loaf with Irresistible Aroma
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft and tender cinnamon roll bread with beautiful swirls of cinnamon sugar and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. This easy quick bread delivers all the flavors of a cinnamon roll without the yeast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for swirl)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture on top.
- Add remaining batter and top with remaining cinnamon mixture. Use a knife to swirl gently.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool completely before drizzling with powdered sugar glaze.
Notes
- Do not over-swirl to keep distinct cinnamon layers.
- Let bread cool fully before glazing.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Can add chopped pecans for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Provides structure and a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar
Sweetens the bread and enhances texture.
Brown sugar
Used in the cinnamon filling for deeper caramel notes.
Ground cinnamon
Creates the warm, signature flavor.
Unsalted butter
Adds richness and moisture.
Eggs
Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Milk
Adds softness and helps create a smooth batter.
Baking powder
Helps the bread rise evenly.
Salt
Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
Vanilla extract
Enhances overall aroma and sweetness.
Powdered sugar (for glaze)
Used to create a simple sweet topping.
Heavy cream or milk (for glaze)
Thins the glaze to the desired consistency.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool completely before drizzling with glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 10 slices.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45–55 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store Cinnamon Roll Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly for a crisp edge.
The loaf can be frozen for up to two months. Wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Cinnamon Roll Bread is easy to adapt. For a richer version, swirl softened cream cheese into the center before baking.
I have tried adding chopped pecans to the cinnamon layer, which introduced a pleasant crunch. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
For a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon slightly in the filling. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, reduce the glaze or omit it entirely.
To create a streusel topping, combine flour, butter, and brown sugar and sprinkle it over the batter before baking.
You may also substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per slice (based on 10 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 28 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overmix
Overmixing can make the bread dense.
Swirl Gently
Avoid over-swirling to maintain distinct layers.
Check Early
Ovens vary; begin checking at 45 minutes.
Cool Before Glazing
Allow full cooling to prevent glaze from melting excessively.
FAQs
Can I use yeast instead of baking powder?
This recipe is designed as a quick bread; yeast would require a different method.
Can I add raisins?
Yes, raisins can be added to the cinnamon filling.
Why is my swirl sinking?
Ensure the batter is evenly distributed before swirling.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in two loaf pans and adjust baking time if needed.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, the bread is delicious even without glaze.
Is this suitable for breakfast?
Yes, it pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Bread captures the beloved flavor of traditional cinnamon rolls in a convenient, sliceable loaf. With its soft texture, warm spice, and sweet glaze, it is a comforting treat suitable for any time of day. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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