Description
Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
A hint of honey gives this cinnamon swirl bread a unique sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon (for the swirl)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
Cream butter, sugar, and honey. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk.
Layer batter and cinnamon-sugar in the pan, swirl, and bake for 55 minutes.
Cool and drizzle with extra honey if desired.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla. With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk in two parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup of sugar with the tablespoon of cinnamon for the swirl.
Pour one-third of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat with another third of the batter and the remaining cinnamon-sugar. Top with the final third of the batter. Use a knife or a skewer to make deep, sweeping swirls through the layers. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is incredibly versatile. For a simple breakfast, enjoy a thick slice lightly toasted with a smear of salted butter. It makes an elegant dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of honey. For a special brunch, pair it with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream cheese. It also packages beautifully, making it a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix dry ingredients. Cream wet ingredients (butter, sugar, honey, eggs, vanilla). Combine wet and dry mixes alternately with buttermilk. Layer batter with a cinnamon-sugar swirl in a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for 55-60 minutes. Cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but for best texture, make a substitute. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a 1-cup measure, then fill with milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How should I store this bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why did my swirl sink to the bottom?
This happens if the batter is too thin. Ensure your butter is just softened, not melted, and accurately measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method.
Can I reduce the sugar?
The sugar provides structure and moisture. Reducing it by more than 1/4 cup can affect the bread’s texture and browning. The honey is essential for the signature flavor.
My bread is browning too fast. What should I do?
If the top is browning quickly before the center is done, loosely tent the loaf with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense bread. Mix only until the flour disappears.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better emulsion and a more even rise.
- Not swirling deeply enough: Shallow swirls won’t distribute the cinnamon flavor. Be bold and drag your knife from the bottom to the top of the pan.
- Slicing while warm: The bread needs time to set. Cutting it too soon will cause it to crumble.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is a foolproof recipe that delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort. The combination of honey and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting aroma and taste that is perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a beautifully swirled, tender loaf every time. It’s a classic treat that is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
