Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Its moist, soft texture, paired with a rich cinnamon-sugar ribbon, makes it an ideal choice for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted with butter, this quick bread is sure to impress at any gathering or cozy evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to transform this quick bread into muffins or mini loaves for easy serving!
• Quick Baking Time: Enjoy freshly baked bread in just over an hour—perfect for impromptu guests.
• Moist and Soft Texture: The inclusion of sour cream ensures every slice is fluffy and tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan (or 8×4-inch)
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick spray
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: This provides the shape for your quick bread, ensuring it bakes evenly.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly without over-mixing, which is crucial for maintaining the bread’s texture.
• Cooling Rack: Using a cooling rack allows air to circulate around the bread, preventing sogginess as it cools.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread:

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Bread Batter

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup (160ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (75g/80ml) vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup (80g) full-fat sour cream (or plain yogurt/Greek yogurt), at room temperature
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• optional: vanilla icing

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the granulated sugar, whole milk, vegetable oil, sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Now combine:
1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
2. Whisk gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; the batter should be thick and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread

1. Pour about half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle nearly all of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top (reserve about 2 tablespoons).
3. Carefully pour/spread the remaining batter over this layer.
4. Sprinkle with the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Use a knife to create a swirl throughout the batter—be cautious not to over-swirl.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place in the oven and bake for 50–65 minutes.
2. Tent loosely with foil halfway through if needed to prevent over-browning.
3. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool in pan on a cooling rack for about an hour.
2. After cooling slightly, remove from pan and continue cooling on rack until completely cool.
3. Drizzle with optional icing if desired before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread! Remember to store leftovers properly at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

Cinnamon swirl quick bread is delightful on its own, but it can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Butter

• Spread a generous layer of softened butter over warm slices for a comforting treat that enhances the rich flavors of cinnamon.

Topped with Cream Cheese

• Spread cream cheese on top for a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweet bread. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor!

With Fresh Fruits

• Serve alongside fresh fruits like sliced apples or pears. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon swirl.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds a floral sweetness that complements the spiced bread perfectly.

As French Toast

• Transform leftover bread into decadent French toast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and frying until golden brown.

With Vanilla Icing

• For a sweeter touch, drizzle vanilla icing over each slice. This makes it a perfect dessert option!

How to Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

To ensure your cinnamon swirl quick bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and dairy to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t Over-Mix the Batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your bread soft and tender. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Swirl with Care: When incorporating the cinnamon-sugar filling, use gentle swirling motions to maintain distinct layers without mixing them too much.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. This prevents undercooking or overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

Pairing side dishes with your cinnamon swirl quick bread can create an enjoyable breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bread while adding protein.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the bread.

3. Nut Butter: Almond or cashew butter can be spread on top for added protein and healthy fats, enhancing flavor and texture.

4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal served alongside offers additional heartiness and fiber, making for a wholesome meal.

5. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein that complements the sweet flavors of the quick bread wonderfully.

6. Smoothie: A fresh fruit smoothie pairs well for a nutritious drink option that rounds out your breakfast experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
• Skipping the cinnamon-sugar layer: The swirl is key to flavor. Don’t forget to layer it generously in the middle!
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can affect how well your bread rises. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Not checking for doneness: Baking times can vary. Always test with a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean before removing from the oven.
• Ignoring cooling time: Patience is crucial! Let the bread cool in the pan for an hour to maintain moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 1 week.

Freezing Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread:

How do I make my Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread more moist?

Adding more sour cream or yogurt can enhance moisture levels. Just ensure you maintain the right balance of dry ingredients.

Can I convert this recipe into muffins?

Yes! Simply pour the batter into muffin tins and adjust baking time to about 18-22 minutes.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain yogurt or Greek yogurt serves as a great substitute, keeping the bread creamy and rich.

Can I add nuts or fruit to my Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries make excellent additions.

How should I serve Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread?

It’s delicious on its own, but you can also drizzle it with icing or enjoy it with butter.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its delightful cinnamon-sugar ribbon, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding nuts or toppings that you love!