If you love the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll but crave an easier, quicker bake, Cinnamon Roll Bread is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the sweet swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar nestled inside a soft, tender loaf—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee. This recipe brings all that irresistible nostalgia and gooey goodness together with just a handful of pantry staples and a simple method. Trust me, you’ll want to make this delightfully cozy bread again and again!

Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s bursting with warmth and sweetness. Each element plays a key role—some for fluffiness, some for flavor, and every one essential for that classic Cinnamon Roll Bread experience.

All-purpose flour: Gives the bread its tender crumb and structure—don’t substitute with bread flour for the best texture.
Baking powder: Provides the perfect rise and keeps the bread light and fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweet flavors and brings out the cinnamon’s warmth.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the base of the bread without overpowering the cinnamon swirl.
Egg: Adds richness and binds everything together.
Milk: Moistens the batter for a soft, cake-like loaf—whole or 2% milk both work beautifully.
Sour cream: Keeps the bread super moist and adds a subtle tang; Greek yogurt is a great swap if needed.
Vegetable oil: Makes the loaf extra tender—use a neutral oil like canola or sunflower if you prefer.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet, bakery-style flavor you crave in Cinnamon Roll Bread.
Brown sugar: The key to that deep, caramel-like cinnamon swirl.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice—don’t skimp! It gives the bread its signature aroma and warmth.
Butter (melted): Drizzled on top, it adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar crust form.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this ensures an even bake from the get-go. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with either butter or nonstick spray so your Cinnamon Roll Bread can be turned out easily once it’s done.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. This step helps evenly distribute the baking powder and ensures your loaf rises beautifully, with sweetness in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend is what gives Cinnamon Roll Bread its moist, tender crumb and rich flavor.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula or spoon until just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough, so a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This aromatic duo forms the signature swirl that gives Cinnamon Roll Bread its irresistible look and taste.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top. Add the remaining batter, then the rest of the cinnamon-sugar. Take a knife and gently swirl through the layers to create a pretty marbled effect—don’t overdo it!

Step 7: Drizzle and Bake

Drizzle the melted butter all over the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bread

Garnishes

Once your Cinnamon Roll Bread has cooled, you can take it to the next level with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk. Drizzle it generously for that classic bakery finish, or sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

This bread shines alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai, or a tall glass of cold milk. If you’re serving brunch, pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of vanilla yogurt for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the bread thickly and toast it lightly—top with whipped cream cheese or a smear of butter. You can also cube leftover slices and use them for a dreamy bread pudding or a breakfast trifle layered with fruit and yogurt.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon Roll Bread keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it soft and moist.

Freezing

This bread freezes like a dream! Slice the cooled loaf, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months—perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or pop them in a toaster oven until warmed through. If you’ve glazed the bread, let it cool slightly before serving so the glaze doesn’t melt away.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bread can be baked a day in advance—just wrap it well and let it rest at room temperature. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more irresistible the next day.

What’s the best way to get a perfect swirl?

Layering the cinnamon-sugar mixture between the batter and swirling gently with a knife creates that classic marbled look. Be careful not to over-swirl; a few figure 8 motions are usually just right.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a delicious addition to the swirl, and a handful of raisins adds extra sweetness and texture. Mix them in with the cinnamon-sugar layer for best results.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite non-dairy milk, use a dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream, and opt for plant-based butter. You’ll still get that soft, flavorful Cinnamon Roll Bread everyone loves.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs (no wet batter), it’s ready to come out of the oven. The top should be golden and the loaf should spring back lightly when pressed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Cinnamon Roll Bread! It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with the best smells and brings everyone to the kitchen. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted for breakfast the next day, every slice is pure comfort. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cinnamon Roll Bread is a deliciously sweet and moist loaf featuring a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl throughout. Perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack, it combines soft bread with the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make baked loaf. Topped with melted butter to enhance its buttery taste, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

1 egg
1 cup milk
1/3 cup sour cream
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together evenly.
Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat by pouring the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter to create a marbled cinnamon effect.
Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the batter to enrich the crust and flavor.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy as desired.

Notes

For extra sweetness and moisture, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread.
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to add a tangy flavor and maintain moisture.
Ensure not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
Store leftover bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh for several days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American