If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that fills the kitchen with the aroma of cinnamon and sugar, this Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is the perfect recipe. It’s soft, moist, beautifully sweet, and incredibly simple to make—no mixer required. This loaf tastes like a cross between classic cinnamon rolls and buttery pound cake, creating the perfect slice for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
What makes this bread special is the swirl of cinnamon sugar baked right into the loaf. As it cooks, the cinnamon layer melts into the batter, creating pockets of buttery sweetness and a gorgeous marbled texture. It’s the kind of recipe that feels homemade in every bite—warm, nostalgic, and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
For the Bread Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan generously, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined—do not overmix.
3. Create the Cinnamon Layer
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter until it forms a thick paste.
4. Assemble the Loaf
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, spread evenly, and spoon half of the cinnamon mixture on top.
Use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter.
Add the remaining batter and repeat with the rest of the cinnamon swirl.
5. Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Loaf
- Don’t overmix the batter — it keeps the bread soft and tender.
- Use real buttermilk if possible; it adds extra moisture and richness.
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for texture.
- Store properly — wrap tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread tastes incredible warm with:
- A spread of butter
- A drizzle of honey
- Cream cheese icing
- Fresh fruit
- A cup of hot coffee or tea
Warm it in the microwave for 10–12 seconds to revive its fresh-from-the-oven softness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No yeast or rising time
- Simple ingredients
- Perfect texture
- Freezer-friendly
- Family-approved comfort food
This recipe is the kind of cozy, homemade treat that never lasts long. Whether you bake it for guests, a holiday breakfast, or just because you’re craving something sweet, it’s guaranteed to earn compliments.