Few things feel as comforting as the warm aroma of cinnamon drifting through your kitchen. This Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread delivers everything you love about a classic cinnamon treat — rich flavor, tender crumb, and a beautiful swirl in every slice — without the fuss of yeast or long rising times.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee, this quick bread is soft, moist, and packed with sweet cinnamon goodness. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic yet impressive, simple yet utterly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
This recipe stands out for all the right reasons:
- Moist, tender texture that stays soft for days
- Bold cinnamon swirl in every slice
- No yeast required — quick and beginner-friendly
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert
Whether served warm with butter or enjoyed straight from the loaf, this bread never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a soft yet sturdy structure
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness without overpowering
- Baking Powder – Gives the bread a gentle lift
- Salt – Enhances flavor balance
- Eggs – Provide moisture and structure
- Milk or Buttermilk – Keeps the bread tender
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Adds richness
- Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth and caramel notes
- Ground Cinnamon – Warm, sweet spice
- Optional Nuts – For added texture
👉 Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil (or butter), and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle with half the cinnamon mixture, add remaining batter, and finish with the remaining cinnamon mixture. Swirl gently with a knife.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool before slicing for clean, beautiful swirls.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Bread
- Don’t overmix the batter — this keeps the bread tender
- Use a light hand when swirling to maintain defined layers
- Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly
- Let the loaf cool before slicing to prevent crumbling
Delicious Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar Glaze – Drizzle powdered sugar glaze over the top
- Apple Cinnamon Bread – Add diced apples to the batter
- Cream Cheese Swirl – Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese
- Nutty Cinnamon Bread – Add chopped walnuts or pecans
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months
- Reheat slices briefly in the microwave or toaster oven
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my cinnamon swirl sinking?
This can happen if the batter is too thin or the swirl layer is too heavy. Keeping a thick batter helps suspend the swirl.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can replace up to half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread is everything a cozy homemade bake should be — soft, fragrant, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor. It’s easy enough for everyday baking yet special enough to share with guests.
Once you make it, it’s bound to become a favorite you return to again and again.
