The Ultimate Guide to Baking Tender & Sweet Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Discover the joy of baking your own tender and sweet cinnamon swirl bread, generously swirled with a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture. Customize it with your favorite additions like plump raisins or decadent chocolate chips. And for an extra treat, transform any leftover slices into the most amazing French toast!

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. But when that scent is infused with warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, it transforms into an irresistible invitation. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of tender white bread, generously laced with buttery cinnamon-sugar swirls, perhaps speckled with juicy raisins or melty chocolate chips. This isn’t just bread; it’s a comforting experience, a taste of autumn, and a reminder of simple pleasures.

No need for scented candles here – the authentic fragrance of real food baking is all you need to evoke a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. This homemade cinnamon swirl bread is crafted from scratch, promising a mouthwatering treat that will quickly become a household favorite. I’ve been on a baking spree lately, and this cinnamon swirl bread recipe has quickly risen to the top of my list of treasured baked goods. The secret to its unparalleled tenderness? A special ingredient that I’ve found to be a game-changer in all my bread recipes.

The Secret to Unbelievable Tenderness: Instant Mashed Potato Flakes

When I first set out to perfect a cinnamon bread recipe, I explored various methods, including one from a well-known culinary personality. While it was enjoyable, it didn’t quite hit the mark for the specific texture and depth of flavor I was striving for. So, I returned to a trick I discovered while perfecting my one-hour dinner rolls: incorporating instant mashed potato flakes into the dough. This might sound unusual, but I assure you, it’s a culinary revelation!

The addition of instant mashed potato flakes elevates the tenderness of this cinnamon bread to an entirely new level. They work by absorbing moisture, creating a softer, more luxurious crumb that practically melts in your mouth. If you’re concerned about a potato flavor, don’t be – it’s completely undetectable. Instead, the flakes contribute a wonderfully sweet and creamy texture that was undeniably missing in earlier tests. Once you experience the difference, you’ll find it hard to go back to making bread without this unique ingredient.

Conquering Your Bread-Making Fears: Tips for Beginners

I understand that baking bread can seem daunting. I’ll readily admit that a few years ago, the thought of making bread from scratch filled me with dread. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d be confidently sharing recipes like this homemade cinnamon swirl bread. If you’re new to the world of bread making, please know that you’re not alone, and with a few simple strategies, you can achieve fantastic results. Here are three essential suggestions to make your bread-making journey smooth and enjoyable:

1.) Read the Instructions Thoroughly: Before you even think about grabbing your ingredients, read through the entire recipe at least twice. This crucial step helps you understand the flow of the process, anticipate what comes next, and mentally prepare for each stage. It minimizes surprises and ensures you have a clear roadmap to success.

2.) Prepare All Your Ingredients (Mise en Place): This French culinary term means “everything in its place.” Trust me, things go infinitely smoother when all your ingredients are measured, chopped, and ready to go before you start mixing. You won’t be fumbling with sticky dough on your hands while trying to open the refrigerator or search for a measuring spoon. Organization is key to a stress-free baking experience.

3.) Practice Patience: Dough-making can be a meditative process, but it requires patience. Don’t let the waiting times for rising frustrate you. Instead, embrace them. Put on some relaxing music, brew a cup of coffee or tea, and allow yourself to be consumed by the rhythm of bread making. The anticipation only makes the final reward taste even sweeter.

I want to ensure you feel confident and comfortable with breadmaking by the time you finish this post. That’s why I’m sharing a wealth of extra pictures and detailed information on how to make this delicious cinnamon swirl bread today.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Activating the Yeast: The Foundation of Your Bread

First, let’s talk about the yeast starter. Just like the starter we prepared for our incredibly flavorful rosemary focaccia bread, we’re going to give our yeast about 15 minutes to “bloom.” This blooming process is vital as it activates the yeast, allowing it to feed on the sugars and produce the gas that makes your bread rise. To begin, melt 5 tablespoons of butter in a 4-cup measuring cup (affiliate link) until it’s completely liquid. Then, add milk and 2 teaspoons of sugar (from the 1/3 cup sugar portion reserved for the dough) to the melted butter. Heat this mixture gently in the microwave for approximately 30-40 seconds, or until it reaches a lukewarm temperature of about 105-110ºF. This temperature is crucial: too hot, and it will kill the yeast; too cold, and the yeast won’t activate properly. Sprinkle the yeast over the top of the lukewarm liquid, stir gently to combine, and then let it sit undisturbed for 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes, your yeast mixture should be bubbly and foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and alive. If you don’t see this characteristic bubbling, it’s usually due to one of two reasons: either your liquids weren’t at the correct temperature (too hot or too cold), or your yeast has expired. In either case, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast and carefully measured temperatures to ensure your dough rises successfully.

Mixing and Kneading the Dough: Building Structure and Flavor

Once your yeast is happily activated, it’s time to assemble the dough. In the bowl of your electric stand mixer (affiliate link), fitted with the dough-hook attachment (affiliate link), combine the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar, 3 1/4 cups of flour, the instant potato flakes, and kosher salt. Give the mixer a brief turn on low speed to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients. Then, with the mixer still on low, slowly pour in your activated yeast mixture. Add the eggs, one at a time, allowing each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next. This ensures even distribution and proper dough development.

Once all ingredients are combined, increase the mixer speed to medium and let the machine knead the dough for approximately ten minutes. This kneading process is vital for developing the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewy texture. While the dough is mixing, lightly drizzle a large clean bowl with a little oil and set it aside. After ten minutes, remove the dough from the hook. If the dough still feels excessively sticky, add 2 tablespoons of flour and knead it a little in the bowl. If it remains difficult to handle, add the final 2 tablespoons of flour. Shape the dough into a smooth ball with your hands and transfer it to the oiled bowl. Drizzle a little oil on top, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled significantly in size.

My favorite unconventional trick for guaranteeing a perfect rise, even in the coldest winter months, is using my clothes dryer! Simply heat your dryer on high for about 5 minutes, then turn it off. Place your covered bowl of dough inside and close the door for an hour. The residual warmth creates an ideal proofing environment, ensuring your bread will RISE every time!

Crafting the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl: The Heart of the Bread

Once your dough has completed its first rise, gently flour a clean, flat surface and turn the dough out. Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough into a large rectangle, aiming for dimensions of approximately 9×24 inches. The evenness of your rectangle will contribute to a beautifully uniform swirl in your finished bread. Next, generously spread the 2 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, mixing them well. Sprinkle this aromatic cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough. If you desire, now is the time to dot the dough with your chosen additions – plump raisins are classic, but feel free to swap them for indulgent butterscotch chips or rich chocolate chips if that’s more to your liking.

This is where the “swirl” magic happens! Carefully begin rolling the dough, starting from the far end and rolling it firmly but gently towards you. The key is to keep the roll relatively tight to prevent large gaps or holes in the finished bread, but not so tight that it tears. Use both hands to guide the dough, maintaining an even thickness as you roll. Once rolled, pinch the seam along the bottom to seal the cinnamon sugar filling inside. Lightly spray a 9×5 loaf pan (affiliate link) with a little cooking spray. Carefully lift the rolled dough and place it, seam-side down, into the prepared loaf pan. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise for a second time, for another 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has noticeably increased in size and looks puffy. This second rise contributes to the bread’s light and airy texture.

Baking Your Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Masterpiece

As your dough completes its second rise, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and position an oven rack in the center. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the microwave. Once the dough is ready for baking, use a pastry brush to gently spread this melted butter over the top of the risen loaf. This butter wash will contribute to a beautiful golden-brown crust and add another layer of rich, buttery flavor.

Bake the bread for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the loaf has risen significantly, developed a deep golden-brown top, and sounds hollow when tapped lightly. For precise baking, an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C) is ideal. In my oven, it typically takes about 43 minutes. Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. While the aroma might tempt you, allowing the bread to cool fully ensures the internal structure sets, making for cleaner slices and a better texture.

Keys to Success for the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread:

1. Yeast Activation Temperature: Ensuring your liquids (milk and melted butter) are between 105-110ºF (40-43ºC) is absolutely critical. If the liquid is too hot, it will kill the yeast, preventing your dough from rising. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly, resulting in a sluggish or non-existent rise. Always use a thermometer for accuracy, or if checking by touch, it should feel just warm, not hot.
2. Yeast Type Matters: This recipe specifically calls for rapid-rise or instant yeast. These types of yeast are designed to work more quickly, reducing the overall proofing time needed for the dough to rise. Make sure your yeast packet is not labeled ‘active dry yeast’. While active dry yeast can still be used, be aware that it will require a significantly longer rising time for both the first and second proofs than specified in this recipe. Adjust your schedule accordingly if using active dry.
3. Check Yeast Expiration Date: This small detail is often overlooked but can dramatically impact your baking results. Yeast is a living organism, and like all living things, it has a shelf life. Using expired yeast is a common reason for dough failing to rise. Always double-check the expiration date on your yeast packet before you begin; fresh yeast ensures a vigorous, successful rise.

I know this was a lengthy post, but my goal was to provide you with as much detailed information and helpful tips as possible to ensure your homemade cinnamon swirl bread turns out perfectly every single time. Baking bread is a rewarding process, and with these guidelines, you’re well on your way to success.

Serving Suggestions & Leftovers

The beauty of this cinnamon swirl bread lies in its versatility. On the first day, I love to serve it simply, with a generous smear of butter that melts into the warm, tender crumb. It’s pure bliss. However, this bread truly shines when transformed into other delights. Any leftover slices make absolutely amazing French toast – seriously, it’s a game-changer! The built-in sweetness and cinnamon spice elevate classic French toast to gourmet status. You can also toast slices and serve them with cream cheese or jam, or even turn slightly stale bread into a comforting bread pudding. For storage, keep the bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze sliced portions for longer enjoyment.

Yield: 10-12 slices

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Prep Time
2 hours 30 minutes

Cook Time
50 minutes

Additional Time
10 minutes

Total Time
3 hours 30 minutes

Learn how to make a cinnamon swirl bread. This bread is tender and sweet and swirled with a buttery cinnamon sugar swirl. You can even sprinkle in some raisins or chocolate chips if you like! Then, use the leftover bread for French toast!

Ingredients

Bread:

• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 cup milk
• 1/3 cup sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon instant (or rapid rise) yeast
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 3 1/4 – 3 1/2 cups flour (see notes)
• 1/4 cup instant mashed potato flakes
• 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1/3 cup raisins, optional (see notes)

Instructions

1. Bloom the yeast: Place 5 tablespoons of butter in a 4-cup measuring cup (affiliate link) and melt the butter in the microwave. Measure out 1/3 cup of sugar in a bowl. Add the milk and 2 teaspoons of sugar from the previously measured 1/3 cups.  Heat in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or until the milk reaches 105-110ºF. Sprinkle yeast over the top, stir to combine, let sit 15 minutes.
2. Make the dough: Meanwhile, in the bowl of your electric mixer (affiliate link)  fitted with the dough-hook attachment (affiliate link), add what’s remaining of the 1/3 cup of sugar, 3 1/4 cup flour, potato flakes, and kosher salt. Turn the mixer on briefly to allow the ingredients to combine. With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the eggs, one at a time, waiting in between to allow the egg to mix in fully. When combined, increase speed to medium and run the mixer for 10 minutes. While the dough is mixing, drizzle a large bowl with a little oil and set aside. Remove the dough from the hook, if you still feel it’s too sticky, add 2 tablespoons of flour, and knead it in the bowl a little. If the dough is still sticky and hard to work with, add the remaining 2 tablespoons. Shape dough into a ball using your hands and place it in the oiled bowl. Drizzle a little oil on the top, wrap with plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1- 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size (see notes).
3. Make the swirls: Flour a flat surface and turn the dough out. Roll the dough out into a 9×24 inch piece. Spread the 2 tablespoons of softened butter on top. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the dough and if desired, sprinkle with raisins. Start rolling gently but firmly, using both hands. It’s easier if you start at the far end and roll the dough towards you. Pinch the seams to contain the cinnamon sugar. Spray a 9×5 loaf pan (affiliate link) with a little cooking spray and gently lift the dough and place it, seam side down, in the prepared loaf pan. Cover with plastic wrap, let the dough rise for another 1 – 1 1/2 hours.
4. Bake: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350ºF. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the microwave and using a pastry brush, spread the butter on the dough. Bake the bread for 40-45 minutes or until the dough rises and browns on top. Mine took 43 minutes. Remove the bread from the pan and let cool before slicing and enjoying! Leftover bread makes amazing french toast.

Notes

• I like replacing some of the all-purpose with bread flour in this recipe, however, this is optional. I used about 1 1/4 cups of bread flour and 2 cups of all-purpose. For additional dusting, I stuck with more all-purpose.
• You can swap the raisins for butterscotch or chocolate chips if you’d like!
• A dryer is a great place for your bread dough to proof. Heat the dryer on high for 4-5 minutes, turn off the dryer. And place your bowl inside, and do not open the dryer for 1 hour.

Have you made this recipe?

If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and a comment below. You can also share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #LITTLESPICEJAR, I’d love to see what you made!

Baking homemade cinnamon swirl bread is an experience that delights all the senses, from the intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen to the tender, sweet bite of each slice. It’s a testament to the simple joy of creating something delicious from scratch. So, gather your ingredients, take a deep breath, and embark on this wonderful baking adventure. You’ll be amazed at the delicious masterpiece you create, and your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!