Post Title: Experience the Magic of Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Time Required:
– Preparation: 20 minutes
– Rising: 1 hour 30 minutes
– Cooking: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
INTRODUCTION
Baking homemade bread is a highly rewarding experience and our Cinnamon Swirl Bread recipe brings this experience to you in a simple and achievable way. The divine aroma and comforting warmth of this bread is an absolute treat. Let’s dive in to the process of making it.
WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Cinnamon Swirl Bread perfectly balances the sweetness of sugar and the aromatic allure of cinnamon, all tucked into delectable, soft bread. It’s ideal for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a thoughtful homemade gift.
HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
– 3 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 3/4 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large egg
For the Cinnamon Filling:
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
Directions:
1. Start by heating milk, water, and butter in a small saucepan. Make sure the mix is warm, not hot, and the butter completely melts.
2. Take a large bowl, and combine 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the milk mixture and egg, then beat until it gets smooth. Stir the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth, it should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This should take about an hour.
5. For the filling, mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll out the dough into a 15×8-inch rectangle, spread softened butter and sprinkle cinnamon-sugar evenly on top.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the short edge. Pinch the seam to seal. Put the dough in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan with the seam side down.
7. Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled, which should take about 30 minutes. As it rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until it is golden brown, then remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
HOW TO SERVE CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Slice the warm Cinnamon Swirl Bread and enjoy it as is or spread some butter on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot tea.
HOW TO STORE CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Store any leftover Cinnamon Swirl Bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
TIPS TO MAKE CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Ensure your yeast is fresh and active to achieve a fluffy and soft bread. Also, don’t rush the rising process, the longer and slower rise gives a better flavor to the bread.
VARIATIONS
For a variation, you could add raisins or nuts to your cinnamon filling for an added texture. Alternatively, for an extra sweet treat, add a vanilla glaze on top once the bread is baked and cooled.
FAQs
Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes, you can use the same amount of active dry yeast. However, it needs to be dissolved in warm water before adding to the recipe.
Q: Why isn’t my dough rising?
A: Make sure your yeast is not expired. Also, create a warm environment for your dough to rise properly.
Q: Can I prepare the dough in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and have it undergo the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight for the second rise.