Indulge in the delightful aroma and taste of cinnamon with this Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this bread combines a soft, moist texture with a sweet, spiced swirl that will make your taste buds dance. It's quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear once served.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to ensure you have ground cinnamon and unsalted butter on hand. Ground cinnamon is essential for the signature swirl, and unsalted butter helps control the salt content in the bread. If you don't have these, a trip to the supermarket is necessary.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the bread and helps with browning.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the bread.
Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture without adding extra salt.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice that creates the signature swirl and flavor.
Cinnamon-sugar mixture: A combination of sugar and ground cinnamon used for the swirl.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve a perfect cinnamon swirl in your quick bread, make sure to use a knife with a thin blade. Gently drag the knife through the batter in a figure-eight pattern to create a beautiful marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cinnamon-sugar mixture to blend too much with the batter, losing the distinct swirl.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the bread denser.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the bread. Use ¾ cup of honey for every cup of sugar and reduce the liquid by ¼ cup.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking. Use the same quantity as regular milk.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract gives a different but pleasant flavor. Use half the amount of almond extract as you would vanilla extract.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and adds a subtle coconut flavor, making the bread dairy-free.
sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor and more moisture to the bread.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Quick Bread
How to Store / Freeze This Quick Bread
Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the bread soggy.
Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain its moisture and flavor.
For added protection, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
If you prefer to refrigerate, the bread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure it is wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.
To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
For a quick thaw, you can slice the bread before freezing. This allows you to take out individual slices as needed. Reheat the slices in a toaster or microwave for a warm treat.
If you notice any changes in texture or flavor after freezing, consider using the bread for bread pudding or French toast. This way, you can still enjoy its deliciousness in a different form.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cinnamon swirl quick bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the bread's moist texture and enhances the cinnamon aroma.
Slice the cinnamon swirl quick bread into individual pieces. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This quick method is perfect for when you're in a hurry and want a warm slice of bread without waiting.
Use a toaster oven for a slightly crisp exterior. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cinnamon swirl quick bread directly on the rack or on a piece of aluminum foil. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-browning. This method gives a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and the soft, moist interior.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place a slice of cinnamon swirl quick bread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method adds a slight toasty flavor to the bread and is great for achieving a warm, comforting slice.
If you have a steamer, use it to gently reheat the cinnamon swirl quick bread. Place the bread in a heatproof dish and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is warmed through. This method keeps the bread moist and soft, perfect for preserving its original texture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the bread.
Loaf pan: Grease this to prevent the bread from sticking.
Mixing bowl: Use one for the dry ingredients and another for the wet ingredients.
Whisk: Combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Small bowl: Mix the cinnamon and sugar for the swirl.
Measuring cups: Measure out the flour, sugar, milk, and butter accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure the baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Knife: Swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
Toothpick: Check if the bread is done by inserting it into the center.
Cooling rack: Let the bread cool before slicing.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline your baking process and ensure you don't miss anything.
Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to combine the wet and dry ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Prepare the pan ahead: Grease your loaf pan before you start mixing. This will save you time and prevent the batter from sitting too long.
Double the recipe: Make two loaves at once and freeze one for later. This way, you only have to clean up once.
Preheat the oven early: Turn on your oven before you start mixing. This ensures it's at the right temperature when you're ready to bake.
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup Unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl
- ⅓ cup Sugar
- 2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Recipe
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