Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cups white sugar, divided
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup milk
• cup vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix cup of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Set this aside for later.

Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vegetable oil. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 7: Pour the remaining batter into the pan and top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife to swirl the batter and create a marbled effect.

Step 8: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Step 9: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: For the best results, wrap the cooled loaf in foil and let it sit overnight before slicing.

Step 11: Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	233	-
Total Fat	7g	9%
Saturated Fat	1g	7%
Cholesterol	17mg	6%
Sodium	195mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	40g	14%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	23g	-
Protein	3g	7%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	80mg	6%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	61mg	1%

Recipe by Bettina J

History and Origins

Cinnamon swirl bread, a warm, comforting treat, has roots in various European and American baking traditions. Its precise origins are hard to pinpoint, but it is believed to have emerged in the 19th century, inspired by the combination of yeast bread and cinnamon, a spice native to Sri Lanka. Cinnamon itself has been prized for millennia in many cultures, used not only for its flavor but also for medicinal properties. The cinnamon swirl bread evolved as a variant of traditional sweet breads, commonly baked in households across Europe and the United States as a sweet treat for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Regional Variations

While the classic recipe for cinnamon swirl bread remains largely unchanged, its variations reflect the regional preferences and local baking styles. In Sweden, for example, a similar type of bread, known as kanelbulle, features cinnamon and sugar rolled into a soft, yeast-based dough, often twisted into a spiral. In the United States, cinnamon swirl bread is more commonly made with a quick bread batter rather than yeast dough, making it quicker to prepare. The American version has a softer crumb and less of a yeast-like texture, which contrasts with the fluffier, slightly denser Scandinavian versions.

Distinctive Features

Compared to other cinnamon-flavored baked goods, cinnamon swirl bread stands out due to its use of a quick bread batter rather than yeast dough. This method results in a denser texture with a pleasantly moist crumb. Unlike cinnamon rolls or babka, which often require more intricate preparation and proofing time, cinnamon swirl bread is a simpler and quicker alternative, making it perfect for last-minute baking sessions. The signature feature is the generous swirl of cinnamon-sugar running through the bread, creating pockets of flavor in every bite.

Where It Is Served

Cinnamon swirl bread is often served as a breakfast treat, alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Its sweet aroma and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or family gatherings. Many also enjoy it as a snack or dessert. In cafes and bakeries, it is often sliced and toasted, topped with a bit of butter or jam for an indulgent morning delight. The bread can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat at any time of day, offering a cozy and satisfying bite for those who need a quick, comforting snack.

Interesting Facts

• The use of cinnamon in baking became widespread in the 19th century, as cinnamon was brought to Europe from the Spice Islands (present-day Indonesia).
• Some people prefer to wrap cinnamon swirl bread in foil and allow it to rest overnight. This helps the flavors meld together, making the bread even more flavorful the next day.
• There are many creative variations of this bread, including adding raisins, nuts, or even a glaze on top for extra sweetness.
• Cinnamon is not just flavorful but also packed with antioxidants and has been linked to several health benefits, such as improved blood sugar control and anti-inflammatory effects.

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