Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, helping the bread rise and become light in texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture. Be sure to beat well after each addition, ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated. Once the eggs are combined, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with a portion of the dry ingredients, then add some buttermilk, mixing until just combined after each addition. Repeat until all the dry ingredients and buttermilk have been incorporated into the batter. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as that can result in a dense bread.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and granulated sugar for the topping. This mixture will give the bread a beautiful sweet and spicy finish.

Step 7: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Tap the pan on the countertop a few times to eliminate any air bubbles.

Step 8: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top of the batter. This will create a beautiful sugary crust that contrasts nicely with the soft bread inside.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 50-minute mark. The bread should be golden brown on top, and the edges may pull slightly away from the sides of the pan.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, turn the bread out onto a wire rack to cool completely. The bread is perfect when it’s still slightly warm, but it can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before you begin. This will help everything combine more easily and result in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the batter, it’s important not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can lead to a dense and heavy loaf.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture. You can also try adding a handful of raisins or chocolate chips for an extra flavor twist.
• Check for Doneness: If you find that the bread is getting too dark on top before it’s fully cooked, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until done.

Variations to Try

While the classic cinnamon sugar quick bread is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few ideas:

• Apple Cinnamon Sugar Bread: For a fruity twist, fold in chopped apples (peeled and cored) into the batter. Apple pairs beautifully with cinnamon and adds a wonderful texture to the bread.
• Maple Cinnamon Sugar Bread: Replace the buttermilk with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile. You can also drizzle some maple glaze on top for a sweet finishing touch.
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Bread: Add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree to the batter for a fall-inspired variation. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for extra warmth.

Why This Bread is Perfect for Any Occasion

Cinnamon sugar quick bread is versatile, easy to make, and can be served for any occasion. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, a holiday breakfast, or a simple afternoon snack, this bread will satisfy your sweet tooth and make your kitchen smell amazing. The best part is that it can be enjoyed by everyone, and leftovers (if there are any!) make for a tasty snack the next day.

This cinnamon sugar quick bread can also be a thoughtful homemade gift. Simply wrap it in parchment paper and twine or place it in a decorative tin. It’s the perfect way to share a piece of comfort with others.

Conclusion

Cinnamon sugar quick bread is the epitome of comfort food. With its soft, tender crumb and sugary cinnamon topping, it’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is easy to follow and results in a loaf that’s perfect every time. Try it today, and soon it will become your go-to treat when you’re craving something sweet, warm, and delicious!