If you have a soft spot for cinnamon rolls but want a quicker, fuss-free way to enjoy all those cozy, spicy, sweet swirls, this Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It transforms the classic cinnamon roll flavors into a tender, pull-apart loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any comforting snack moment. With each slice, you get that perfect balance of fluffy bread and cinnamon-sugar spirals topped with a luscious glaze that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let me take you through this incredibly satisfying recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe lies in a handful of simple, pantry-staple ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating that soft bread texture or that signature cinnamon-sugar swirl that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, tender bread that’s just the right consistency.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the bread batter itself.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Your secret to a light and fluffy loaf without yeast.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and moisture to the dough.
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy): Helps bind everything together and keep it soft.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Adds structure and a lovely golden hue to the bread.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed: Essential for that deep, caramel-like flavor in the cinnamon swirl.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the bread its iconic warmth and aroma.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Mixed into the cinnamon sugar to create a luscious, gooey swirl.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze that adds sweetness and a pretty finish.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency to silky perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the glaze with a lovely, comforting note.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan thoroughly and then line it with parchment paper — this makes removing the bread a breeze and keeps your beautiful swirls intact.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This blends the rising agent evenly and ensures every bite has a consistent flavor and texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, and beaten egg until well combined. Add this to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. The key here is to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough rather than soft and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. This mixture is what creates those irresistible pockets of cinnamon-sugar goodness throughout the bread.
Step 5: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top, then gently swirl it through the batter using a knife. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture, creating layers of cinnamon magic inside the loaf.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Bake the bread for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps the loaf set so the slices stay perfect.
Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over the cooled bread; it’s the final touch that makes the Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe truly shine.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Top your slices with a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Alternatively, a little extra cinnamon dusted on top or a dollop of cream cheese frosting elevates this bread from simply delicious to downright indulgent.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, chai latte, or even a bowl of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or turkey sausage to mix sweet and savory flavors deliciously.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the loaf into thick slices and toast them lightly for a warm, crunchy treat. You can also cube the bread and use it in a bread pudding or French toast casserole to impress guests with an unexpected twist on a classic favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe keeps really well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, it stays soft and fresh enough to enjoy without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save this treat for later, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully when left out overnight.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or refrigerated bread back to life, warm slices in the toaster oven or microwave briefly. A quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes in a 350°F oven refreshes that soft texture and revives the glaze’s sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the bread will be denser and have a nuttier flavor. For best texture, try a blend of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
Is it possible to make this Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative. The bread will still be soft and flavorful.
Can I make this bread ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can bake it the day before, store it covered at room temperature, and add the glaze just before serving to keep it fresh and visually appealing.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
At room temperature in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigerating can extend shelf life but may dry the bread, so reheat gently before serving.
Can I double the recipe for a larger loaf or two loaves?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and using two loaf pans works perfectly. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe is one of those cozy, crowd-pleasing treats that feels like it was made with love in every bite. Whether you serve it at a family breakfast or enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea, the sweet cinnamon swirls and tender crumb never disappoint. Don’t wait to try it—your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Bread combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a quick bread. Featuring a tender, moist crumb swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, milk, and lightly beaten egg. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
- Make Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create a rich, sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it through. Repeat by layering the remaining batter and cinnamon-sugar mixture, swirling again to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare and Drizzle Glaze: While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet, glossy finish.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and light.
- If using non-dairy milk, opt for unsweetened varieties to control sweetness.
- Ensure the bread has cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
- The cinnamon-sugar swirl can be adjusted to taste for more or less sweetness and spice.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
