If you’re on the lookout for a quick, delightful treat that brings cozy vibes and sweet cinnamon goodness together, look no further than this Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf Recipe. It’s a simple, fuss-free loaf that twists classic cinnamon and brown sugar flavors into a soft, golden bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a comforting dessert. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with an irresistible warm aroma in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma of your cinnamon twist loaf. The simplicity of these staples means you probably already have them in your pantry, and together they transform into a beautifully tender, sweet bread anyone can make.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing softness and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness that balances the cinnamon spice.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps give the loaf a light, fluffy rise without yeast.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, keeping the loaf perfectly balanced.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the dough and adds richness to the crumb.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings a buttery flavor and tender texture to the loaf.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the loaf with that classic aroma.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon filling.
How to Make Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and lining your loaf pan with parchment paper ensures your beautiful cinnamon twist loaf will come out effortlessly and have an even golden crust all around.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Whisking them together not only distributes the baking powder and salt evenly but also helps your loaf rise uniformly, giving you that perfect light texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough
Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then gently stir until the mixture becomes a cohesive dough. Be careful not to overmix here; the goal is a tender crumb, not toughness!
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into a rectangle. This step sets the stage for creating those gorgeous cinnamon swirls inside your loaf. A nicely even rectangle means even layers of cinnamon and sugar throughout.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Layer
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar evenly across the dough rectangle. This flavorful layer is what will give you those sweet, spicy pockets in every slice—an absolute highlight of this recipe.
Step 6: Twist It Up
Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then twist the two halves together gently but firmly. This twist crafts the signature look of your loaf and ensures the cinnamon sugar have that delightful spiral pattern you crave.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place your twisted dough into the prepared loaf pan and into the oven it goes. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the kitchen is filled with that mouthwatering cinnamon scent. It’s pretty much impossible to resist at this point.
Step 8: Cool and Optional Dusting
Let the loaf cool slightly in the pan before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. For an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty finish, dust the loaf with powdered sugar if you like. Now it’s ready to slice and share!
How to Serve Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely presentation, a light sprinkle of powdered sugar transforms your loaf into something special, adding a snowy, delicate sweetness on top that visually pops. Alternatively, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon twist loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea, making your breakfast or snack time feel like a mini celebration. For a heartier option, try it alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the loaf into thick cuts and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch and flair. For a fun twist, toast slices lightly and slather with cream cheese or nut butter for a rich, flavorful treat that keeps the cinnamon magic alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover cinnamon twist loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it soft and fresh. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days, but this easy bread holds up nicely at room temperature for quick snacking.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this loaf later, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag to protect it from freezer burn. When properly stored, it can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in the toaster oven. This little help will bring back that soft, pillowy texture and melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon flavor.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour to make this recipe a bit healthier, but keep in mind it may result in a denser loaf with a nuttier flavor. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balanced texture.
Is it possible to make this cinnamon twist loaf dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute melted in place of unsalted butter to keep it moist and flavorful without dairy.
How long can I store the baked loaf at room temperature?
The loaf stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days when wrapped or placed in an airtight container. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze to prevent it from drying out.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Yes! Adding chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon and brown sugar layer is a wonderful way to add texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them evenly before folding and twisting the dough.
What is the best way to get a more dramatic cinnamon swirl?
Make sure to roll the dough evenly and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously but uniformly. When twisting, try not to stretch the dough too much so the layers stay tight and defined for that beautiful swirl effect.
Final Thoughts
This Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf Recipe is a treasure for any home baker craving a delicious, no-fuss treat. Its simplicity, warmth, and comforting flavors make it perfect to share with loved ones or simply enjoy yourself. Give it a try—you’ll love how quick it is to pull together and how magically it fills your kitchen with that classic cinnamon aroma you can’t resist!
Print
Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf is a delightful homemade bread featuring a sweet cinnamon and brown sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, this loaf combines simple pantry staples into a tender, flavorful treat with a beautiful twisted design. It bakes quickly in just 30 minutes and yields 8 generous slices.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract into the dry mix. Stir gently until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
- Roll out dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into a rectangular shape approximately 9 by 12 inches for even layering.
- Add cinnamon sugar: Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar over the dough rectangle to create the signature swirl flavor.
- Fold and twist dough: Fold the dough in half lengthwise to enclose the cinnamon sugar, then twist the two ends of the folded dough together gently to form a spiral and seal the layers.
- Shape and bake: Place the twisted dough into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring it fits snugly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure not to overwork the dough to keep the loaf tender.
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
- For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the milk with buttermilk.
- Store leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Powdered sugar dusting is optional but adds a lovely finishing touch.
