Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe

If you’re looking to bring the comforting, nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls into a simpler, sliceable treat, Cinnamon Roll Bread is an absolute dream come true. This easy quick bread has all the gooey cinnamon-sugar swirls you love, with a buttery crumb and luscious glaze that makes each bite pure joy—whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a treat that’s almost impossible to resist straight from the oven, sending warm, cozy aromas through the kitchen that promise comfort with every slice. If you love cinnamon rolls but crave a low-fuss bake, this Cinnamon Roll Bread couldn’t be more perfect.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of what makes this Cinnamon Roll Bread so magical is just how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each staple plays its part in creating a bread that’s moist, tender, and beautifully spiced, while that classic glaze adds a final flourish you’ll want to drizzle on everything.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure without heaviness.
• Baking powder: Ensures a lofty, tender crumb by giving the bread its signature rise.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens every flavor note.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a delicate, moist texture.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• Milk: Moistens the dough, making the crumb soft and tender.
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Offers tang and extra moisture—your secret weapon for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vegetable oil: Adds lightness and ensures every slice stays tender for days.
• Vanilla extract: Amps up the warmth and depth, echoing classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Brown sugar (for the swirl): Gives the swirl its signature sticky sweetness and irresistible caramel notes.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings the bold, spicy-sweet aroma that defines any great cinnamon roll treat.
• Melted butter (for the swirl): Delivers buttery ribbons that melt right into the bread’s tender crumb.
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze): Whips up to a velvety glaze that’s sweet but never cloying.
• Milk (for the glaze): Loosens the glaze for that gorgeous drizzleable consistency.
• Vanilla extract (for the glaze): Reinforces those bakery-style flavors, tying everything together.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin your Cinnamon Roll Bread adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. For extra insurance, dust the pan lightly with flour—this ensures your gorgeous loaf pops right out when it’s done, swirl and all!

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar so they’re evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, combine the egg, milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil, and vanilla. Pour wet into dry and gently fold until there are no large streaks—some lumps are welcome! Overmixing is the enemy of light, tender bread, so treat it gently.

Step 3: Swirl That Cinnamon Magic

Pour half your batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until Mocha-smooth and aromatic. Dollop half over the batter in the loaf pan and, with a knife, briefly swirl to marble it—think big, ribboning waves. Top with remaining batter, then repeat with the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Swirl again for that bakery-worthy look.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Slide your pan into the center of the oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until your kitchen smells like a cinnamon dream and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and transfer carefully to a wire rack to cool fully before glazing.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk (start with 1 tablespoon), and vanilla for a pourable, glossy glaze. Drizzle it back and forth over your cooled Cinnamon Roll Bread, channeling your inner pastry chef! Let the glaze set before slicing, or dive in while it’s still dreamy and slightly gooey—it’s up to you.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bread

Garnishes

A finishing touch can elevate Cinnamon Roll Bread from delicious to showstopping. Try a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a handful of toasted pecans or mini chocolate chips on top of the glaze for extra crunch and flavor wow.

Side Dishes

Pair a thick, warm slice of this bread with a generous mug of coffee or your favorite chai for a breakfast worth savoring. Fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or some creamy Greek yogurt makes it a balanced brunch spread that’s as beautiful as it is satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch gathering, slice the Cinnamon Roll Bread and arrange on a platter with fresh berries and a ramekin of extra glaze for dipping. Wrap up individual slices in parchment for grab-and-go breakfast treats or turn leftover slices into a decadent French toast for the ultimate weekend indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Roll Bread keeps wonderfully at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to retain its moisture and keep that swirl ultra-soft.

Freezing

This bread is a perfect candidate for freezing! Once cooled (and before glazing, if possible), wrap the whole loaf or individual slices snugly in plastic wrap and then foil. Tucked in the freezer, Cinnamon Roll Bread keeps beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Bring out that fresh-baked warmth by toasting slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes. Glaze after reheating or, for a decadent treat, add a little pat of butter while it’s warm and let it melt right in.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Breakfast, Dessert

For best, fluffiest results, stick with all-purpose flour. Whole wheat or gluten-free blends work in a pinch, but the flavor and texture will change a bit—expect a denser loaf or more rustic crumb.

What’s the best way to swirl in the cinnamon mixture?

Dollop the cinnamon sugar mix in several spots rather than one big area, then use the tip of a knife or skewer to create bold, loose swirls. Don’t overdo it—too much swirling can muddy those beautiful layers!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Stir in up to 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips into either the batter or cinnamon swirl. They add a delightful crunch or melty surprise to every slice.

How do I know when the Cinnamon Roll Bread is perfectly baked?

Trust the toothpick test: Insert one into the center and look for a clean tip or a few moist crumbs. If there’s wet batter, add five more minutes and check again—the top should be golden and the loaf will spring back when gently pressed.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans, or try using a 9×13-inch pan for Cinnamon Roll Bread squares. Adjust bake time as needed and keep an eye out for that clean toothpick test.

Final Thoughts

It’s truly hard to beat the heartwarming, bakery-style comfort of homemade Cinnamon Roll Bread. Whether you share it with loved ones or keep a secret stash for yourself, I hope you give this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe a whirl—because a warm, cinnamon-swirled slice might just become your new favorite treat.

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