Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

If you have a weakness for warm, cozy flavors and the perfect balance of sweet and spice, this Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine slicing into a tender loaf, beautifully swirled with cinnamon butter, topped with a smooth, cinnamon-infused icing that melts on your tongue. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that transforms everyday ingredients into a comforting homemade delight, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an irresistible snack anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that will fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth. From the tangy buttermilk that keeps the bread soft to the cinnamon that infuses every bite with spice, each element is essential.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread’s tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides leavening to make the bread light.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Works with baking soda for the perfect rise.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Gives the bread its signature warm spice.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, keeping the bread soft.
• ⅓ cup canola oil: Keeps the texture moist and tender without heaviness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Brings out the sweetness and complexity.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together, adding richness.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon swirl for deep caramel notes.
• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon: Essential for the cinnamon swirl.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Makes the cinnamon swirl irresistibly buttery.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Forms the base of the icing for that perfect sugary finish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm spice to the icing.
• ¼ cup milk: Adjusts the icing to a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Step 1: Getting Prepped

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it generously with baking spray, ensuring your bread won’t stick and will come out perfectly smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, kosher salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This blend sets the stage for your bread’s delicate crumb and rich flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Grab a large bowl and whisk together the buttermilk, canola oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until the mixture is fully combined and smooth—this will provide moisture and richness.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, so the bread stays tender and soft.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, whisk the melted butter together with the brown sugar and 1 ½ tablespoons of cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and fragrant—this is what makes each bite delightfully gooey and flavorful.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the bread batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cinnamon butter mixture over the batter. Using a knife, swirl this mixture lightly through the batter to create a beautiful cinnamon ribbon.

Step 7: Complete the Layers

Top with the remaining batter, then add the rest of the cinnamon butter mixture, swirling again for that eye-catching marbled look that promises every slice is packed with cinnamon goodness.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your loaf pan on a cookie sheet and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack.

Step 9: Make the Icing

Whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk for your desired drizzle thickness, then spread or drizzle generously over the cooled bread for that sweet finishing touch.

How to Serve Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkling of chopped pecans adds texture and visual appeal. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also take this bread up a notch if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon bread pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or spicy chai tea for breakfast. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and serve it warm with extra butter on the side. You can also turn slices into French toast for an exciting twist, or cube the bread and layer it into a parfait with mascarpone and cinnamon-spiced fruits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cinnamon bread tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep it moist. Stored this way, it will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread securely in plastic wrap, then foil, and place it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months and thaw beautifully without losing moisture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven, microwave (wrapped loosely in a paper towel), or regular oven at low heat to enjoy that freshly baked feel anytime.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tang. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using in the recipe.

Is it possible to make this cinnamon bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain the structure. Be sure to check your baking soda and powder for gluten-free labels.

How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?

Adjust the icing consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or a little extra milk to thin it out. Mix slowly to avoid making it too runny.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use non-dairy milk for buttermilk alternative, and choose a plant-based butter for the cinnamon swirl.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?

Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon butter through the batter rather than stirring vigorously. This creates beautiful, distinct layers without overmixing.

Final Thoughts

Bringing this Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe into your kitchen means inviting warmth, sweetness, and a pinch of nostalgia into your home. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a special treat later, this bread promises comfort in every bite. So go ahead, bake up a loaf, share it with loved ones, and feel the joy that only a homemade cinnamon treat can bring.

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