Cinnamon Sugar Loaf Recipe Overview
Imagine walking into a warm kitchen, filled with the inviting scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air. The soft, fluffy momentum of a freshly baked loaf awaits—a lavish indulgence that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. The Cinnamon Sugar Loaf is not just a treat; it’s a little slice of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood afternoons spent gathered around the table with loved ones. This quick and delightful recipe transports you back to simpler times, making it a must-try for anyone craving comfort in a loaf. It’s not only fast and kid-friendly, but it’s also brimming with flavors that make it impossible to resist.
What’s Your Sweet-Tooth Craving Today?
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about that perfect bite of warm, gooey bread, layered with a sprinkle of sweet cinnamon goodness? Maybe it’s a rainy afternoon, and the thought of diving into a loaf of decadent Cinnamon Sugar Loaf has you feeling comforted. Or perhaps you’re just looking for a simple dessert to share with family that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whatever the moment may be, this recipe is here to quench your cravings in the most beguiling way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, whipping up this flavorful loaf is a breeze!
Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich spices and sweet topping make it a hit at any gathering, ensuring your guests will be begging for the recipe.
Versatile: Enjoy as breakfast, a snack, or a delightful dessert—this loaf fits seamlessly into any part of your day.
Quick Baking Time: Bake it in about an hour, and you have a lush dessert ready in no time.
Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
Soft, fluffy flour is the foundation of this loaf, providing structure while keeping it tender.
Granulated Sugar
Sweet crystals that enhance the flavor and create that beautiful golden crust we all adore.
Baking Powder
This magical ingredient acts as a leavening agent, ensuring a wonderfully light and airy texture.
Salt
Just a dash enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious and balanced.
Whole Milk
Rich, creamy milk adds moisture, producing a lovely, velvety crumb.
Large Egg
Binding the ingredients together, the egg also imparts richness that makes each slice irresistible.
Unsalted Butter
Melted butter is the vital fat that brings richness to the loaf, contributing to its tender crumb.
Vanilla Extract
A splash of warm, sweet vanilla elevates the overall flavor profile, making it incredibly inviting.
Ground Cinnamon
The star spice that fills your home with an enchanting aroma while delivering warm, earthy notes.
Ground Nutmeg
With its sweet and slightly nutty essence, nutmeg completes the spiced profile, making it absolutely divine.
Timing
When it comes to preparing your Cinnamon Sugar Loaf, timing is everything! This recipe is designed to be fast, inviting you to enjoy a warm slice of bread in just about an hour from start to finish. However, allowing your loaf to cool and letting the flavors develop further will only enhance the experience—go ahead and take those few extra minutes for a more luxurious treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect environment for your loaf to rise and bake. Next, grab your loaf pan and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your creation comes out smoothly.
Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This blend becomes the delightful base for your loaf, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. As you combine these luscious ingredients, imagine how they’ll work together to produce a soft, tender loaf.
Combine
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a moist crumb!
Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Glaze and Spice
Once you remove your loaf from the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before carefully taking it out of the pan. Brush the top with melted butter, allowing it to be even more indulgent. Next, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, and sprinkle it generously over the buttered loaf.
Mini Loaves Variation
If you’re craving smaller portions, divide the batter among four mini loaf pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
Storing Your Loaf
Once cooled, wrap your bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in a slice of this delicious Cinnamon Sugar Loaf, you’ll find each serving has approximately 220 calories. Remember, life is all about balance—sometimes, a little indulgence is necessary for the soul!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make some substitutions, there are several options:
Low-Sugar: Use a sugar alternative or a blend of natural sweeteners to reduce calorie intake.
Dairy-Free: Swap out the whole milk for almond or oat milk and replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is versatile! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a stunning dessert or enjoy it with your morning coffee while savoring those warm, cinnamon-spiced notes. It’s perfect for holidays or gatherings—just watch as everyone clamors for a slice!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few pitfalls can prevent you from reaching loaf perfection:
Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the oven—nobody wants a dry loaf!
Texture Issues: Be cautious not to overmix; gentle folding of ingredients maintains that lovely tenderness.
Messy Preparation: Ensure your prep area is tidy, so you can fully enjoy the relaxing experience of baking.
Storing Tips
To keep your delightful Cinnamon Sugar Loaf fresh, consider freezing portions. Slice and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Reheating can be done in the microwave for just a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until warmed through.
Tempting Conclusion
There’s something special about a home baked Cinnamon Sugar Loaf that simply can’t be replicated. From the enticing aromas that fill your kitchen to the way it warms your soul, this recipe is one you won’t want to miss out on. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge! Bake it as soon as possible, and let each slice whisk you away to sweet memories.
FAQs
Can I substitute other spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with ginger, allspice, or even a dash of cardamom for a new twist.How can I make this loaf vegan?
Swap the egg for flaxseed meal or applesauce, use plant-based milk, and coconut oil as a butter substitute.What’s the best way to ensure my loaf rises well?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh—an expired leavening agent can lead to a dense loaf.Can I add nuts or fruits to my loaf?
Definitely! Chopped nuts or dried fruits add wonderful texture and flavor.How do I know when my loaf is fully baked?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—don’t worry, it’ll still be delicious!
Cinnamon Sugar Loaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delightful loaf filled with warm cinnamon and sugar flavors, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool for about 10 minutes, then brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Notes
For mini loaves, divide the batter and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Store in plastic wrap and foil up to five days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
