If you’re dreaming of a treat that tastes like a warm hug on a cool morning, look no further than Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread. This beloved classic brings together tender crumb, ribbons of cinnamon sugar, and the simplest pantry staples for a loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast centerpiece or an anytime snack, it’s the kind of recipe that sparks joy with every bite and fills your kitchen with the most inviting scents. Trust me, once you’ve made this bread, you’ll want to come back to it over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is delightfully simple — chances are you already have everything you need! Each component plays a starring role, from the flour giving structure, to cinnamon swirling its magic for both taste and that irresistible smell.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, delivering just the right crumb.
- Baking powder: Lifts the bread to a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Balances flavors and makes the sweetness pop.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf while keeping it moist.
- Large egg: Adds richness and binds everything together.
- Milk: Ensures a soft, tender crumb — whole or 2% both work great.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter: Makes the bread moist and soft; use butter for an extra boost of flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings cozy depth to the overall flavor.
- Granulated sugar (for swirl): This is mixed with cinnamon to create those signature sugared ribbons throughout.
- Ground cinnamon (for swirl): The star of the show, lending warmth and aroma to every slice.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Gather Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper so the bread lifts out easily once baked. Take a second to round up all your ingredients in advance; a bit of organization makes the process so much smoother.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. This step ensures everything is evenly distributed, helping your Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread bake up consistently light and tender.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg, milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. This forms the flavorful base that will keep your bread moist.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, gently folding with a spatula or spoon just until no dry streaks remain. Take care not to overmix; stirring only until combined keeps your bread soft and prevents toughness.
Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/3 cup sugar with the ground cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then generously sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Repeat with the remaining batter and swirl mix, layering flavor throughout.
Step 6: Swirl and Bake
Take a knife and gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating beautiful, tasty ribbons. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. The aroma at this point is simply divine!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, which helps it firm up so you can remove it neatly. Transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before slicing — though it’s tempting, patience here pays off with perfectly cut pieces.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
Garnishes
A pat of butter melting into a fresh, warm slice truly elevates this treat. For a little extra, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. Each bite becomes an indulgence you’ll want to savor!
Side Dishes
Pair Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread with a steaming mug of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack. Fresh fruit, yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream on the side add color and balance to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the loaf into thick slices and stacking them high on a platter for brunch, or cube the bread and serve as bite-sized treats at a gathering. For an extra touch, toast slices lightly and top with cream cheese or honey – it’s guaranteed to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This bread stays wonderfully moist, so you can enjoy it all week long without worry.
Freezing
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread freezes like a dream! Wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or give them a quick toast for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
For that just-baked warmth, pop a slice into your toaster or microwave for a few seconds. The cinnamon aroma springs right back to life and the bread gets a lovely soft bite.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can substitute up to half of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier loaf. Full whole wheat might make the bread denser, so balance with some all-purpose for best results.
Do I have to use vegetable oil, or can I use only butter?
Either works beautifully! Butter gives more flavor, while oil keeps things ultra-moist. You can even use half of each to play with both taste and texture.
What if I don’t have a 9×5-inch loaf pan?
If you have a slightly smaller or larger loaf pan, no problem — just keep an eye on the baking time. For smaller pans, check a little earlier; for larger ones, you may need the full time. Muffin pans work too, just reduce the bake time accordingly.
How do I keep my bread from becoming dry?
Be careful not to overbake, as oven times can vary. Start checking at 50 minutes. Also, make sure you wrap the cooled bread tightly; this recipe locks in moisture for days if stored well.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or a handful of raisins make tasty additions to Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread. Fold them in gently with the batter or sprinkle on top for added crunch and interest.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade loaf of Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread — easy to whip up, endlessly satisfying, and destined to become a regular favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and share a thick, cinnamon-kissed slice with someone you love; I guarantee it’ll brighten your day!
Print
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The soft, tender bread is swirled with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, creating a beautiful and tasty loaf.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 cup of sugar.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the egg, milk, oil or butter, and vanilla until smooth. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Prepare Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
- Layer Batter: Pour half of the batter into the pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture, add remaining batter, and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
- Swirl and Bake: Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter. Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- This bread stays moist and flavorful for days, store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Delicious warmed with a pat of butter!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
