Craving something sweet and comforting? This Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a tender crumb and swirls of cinnamon sugar goodness, this bread is easy to make and doesn’t require yeast or long proofing times—hence the “quick” in its name. Whether you’re serving it with coffee, tea, or a tall glass of milk, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No yeast or complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Perfectly Sweetened: A balance of sweetness and spice makes it ideal for any time of day.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a glaze for extra indulgence.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gifting, gatherings, or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work great)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins
Step-by-Step Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter, smoothing it out, and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Optional Toppings and Variations
Glaze:
- Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk and drizzle over the cooled bread.
Nuts or Chocolate Chips:
- Add ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Raisin Cinnamon Bread:
- Fold in ½ cup of raisins for a sweet and chewy addition.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in dense bread. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Letting the bread cool ensures clean slices and prevents crumbling.
- Store Properly: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep the bread moist.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with Butter: Toast a slice and spread with butter or cream cheese for a decadent breakfast.
- Coffee Companion: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Gift It: Wrap it in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Storage and Freezing
Storing:
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 7 days.
Freezing:
- Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy.
Why This Recipe Works
This Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread is a no-fail recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The balance of warm cinnamon spice and tender sweetness makes it irresistible, while the quick bread method ensures a fuss-free baking experience. The swirl of cinnamon sugar adds an elegant touch, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread is the ultimate recipe to add to your repertoire. It’s quick, versatile, and bursting with warm, comforting flavors that everyone will love.