Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:

• ⅓ cup (70g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons milk or cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
   • Add the warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Shape the Bread:
   • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 9×15-inch (23x38cm) rectangle on a floured surface.
   • Brush the melted butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the surface.
   • Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the short end. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under.
4. Second Rise:
   • Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again until puffy, about 45 minutes.
5. Bake the Bread:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Brush the loaf with the egg wash for a golden crust.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
   • Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
6. Optional Glaze:
   • Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Enjoy your warm and aromatic Cinnamon Swirl Bread! Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.