Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Bread: An Easy Quick Bread Recipe for Any Occasion

There’s something uniquely comforting about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your home. This **Cinnamon Roll Bread** recipe perfectly captures that warmth and sweetness, transforming a classic favorite into one of the easiest quick bread recipes you’ll ever make. Each delightful slice is generously packed with a beautiful cinnamon swirl and lavishly crowned with a sweet, delicate glaze. This isn’t just a bread; it’s a versatile treat that serves as a delicious dessert, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a cozy breakfast companion with your morning coffee.

Our Cinnamon Roll Bread recipe has quickly become a cherished family favorite, joining the ranks of other beloved cinnamon-infused treats like Cinnamon Roll Pie, festive Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups, and the ever-popular Cinnamon Roll Cookies. My love for baking with cinnamon runs deep, and this bread truly showcases why. The intricate swirls of cinnamon and sugar not only look incredibly appealing but also promise a burst of flavor with every bite. We also adore other cinnamon-inspired creations such as Cinnamon Roll Rice Krispie Treats, the indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, and our comforting Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Recipe. For a quick and delightful snack, don’t forget to try Taco Bell Cinnamon Twist, proving cinnamon’s versatility in satisfying sweet cravings.

This quick bread version delivers all the quintessential flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls without the fuss of yeast, kneading, or extensive rise times. It’s perfect for busy mornings, impromptu gatherings, or simply when you need a little sweet pick-me-up. The process is straightforward, yielding a moist, tender crumb laced with fragrant cinnamon and topped with a luscious, sweet finish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping, yet incredibly simple, baked good that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet bakery.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Delicious Cinnamon Flavor. If you adore the rich, comforting taste of cinnamon roll dough and crave an abundance of warm cinnamon spice, this Cinnamon Swirl bread is an absolute must-try. It delivers that signature sweet and spicy kick in every forkful, making it utterly irresistible and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The generous amount of cinnamon in the swirl ensures a truly aromatic and flavorful experience that stands out.
• Easy Step-by-Step Instructions. Forget complicated baking techniques. This entire recipe is designed for simplicity, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. With clear, concise steps and no yeast involved, you can achieve a bakery-quality bread with minimal effort and without the long waiting times associated with traditional yeast breads. It’s perfect for when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Gifts. This beautifully swirled, glazed bread makes an exquisite homemade gift that friends, family, and neighbors will truly cherish. Wrap it in cellophane with a festive ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, delicious present for holidays, birthdays, or just to show appreciation. Its appealing presentation and incredible taste make it a memorable gesture.
• Quick Prep Time. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require multiple proofing stages, this quick bread comes together in a fraction of the time. You can have the batter ready and in the oven surprisingly fast, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm cinnamon bread without the extensive commitment. It’s ideal for spontaneous baking sessions or when you need a last-minute treat.
• Versatile for Any Meal. Whether you’re planning a lavish brunch, seeking a sweet breakfast treat, or need a comforting dessert to end a meal, this cinnamon roll bread fits the bill. Its balanced sweetness makes it suitable for various occasions, pairing wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Roll Bread

For the Moist and Tender Bread

• All-Purpose Flour. The foundation of our quick bread. For the most accurate measurements, always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. This prevents compaction, which can lead to a dense, dry bread.
• Granulated Sugar. Simple white granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness and contributes to the bread’s moist texture. It balances the warm spices and creates a truly delightful flavor profile.
• Whole Milk. I highly recommend using whole milk as it contributes significantly to the richness and tender crumb of the bread. While other types of milk can be used, whole milk ensures the most luxurious flavor and moistness, making each slice incredibly satisfying.
• Vegetable Oil. This key ingredient is essential for making the bread wonderfully moist and tender. Unlike butter, which can sometimes make quick breads dense, vegetable oil ensures a consistently soft and delicate texture throughout the loaf.
• Baking Powder. As a quick bread, baking powder is our primary leavening agent, responsible for the bread’s rise and light, airy texture. Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Salt. A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors in the bread, balancing the sweetness and making the cinnamon truly shine.
• Large Egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the bread together and adding to its rich flavor and structure.

For the Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl

• Granulated Sugar and Cinnamon. This classic, simple mixture is the heart of our cinnamon roll bread. The combination of sweet sugar and fragrant cinnamon creates a beautiful, aromatic swirl that permeates every bite, delivering that iconic cinnamon roll experience.

For the Sweet and Smooth Glaze Topping

• Powdered Sugar. Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is crucial for a smooth, lump-free glaze. Be sure to sift the powdered sugar before mixing to eliminate any lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth finish for your bread.
• Milk. Just a small amount of milk (you can use whole milk or any type you prefer) is needed to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency for the glaze. Start with a tablespoon and add more drop by drop until it’s just right.

You can find the complete list of precise ingredient measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this post in the handy recipe card.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife (for swirling)
• Wire cooling rack
• Optional: Stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer

Delightful Variations to Try

• Cinnamon Sugar Mixture. While granulated sugar is traditional, you can easily use brown sugar in the cinnamon swirl for a deeper, more caramel-like flavor. Dark brown sugar will lend an even richer taste. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture for an extra layer of warm spice, or a touch of orange zest for a bright, citrusy note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract. For an added depth of flavor, incorporate a hint of vanilla extract into the bread batter. You can also add a small amount to the glaze, which enhances its sweetness and provides a lovely aromatic finish. A good quality pure vanilla extract will make a noticeable difference.
• Cream Cheese Frosting. If you desire an even richer, more indulgent topping, swap the simple milk glaze for a decadent Cream Cheese Glaze. Its tangy sweetness perfectly complements the cinnamon and adds a luxurious texture, reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls. This variation is particularly popular for dessert or special occasions.
• Nutty Additions. Enhance the texture and flavor by folding in half a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the bread batter before layering. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and a rich, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
• Dried Fruit. For extra sweetness and chewiness, consider adding half a cup of plump raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apples to the batter. These fruits soften beautifully during baking and distribute bursts of flavor throughout the bread.
• Chocolate Chips. A handful of mini chocolate chips swirled into the batter along with the cinnamon mixture can create a delightful chocolate-cinnamon combination that’s incredibly appealing, especially to kids and chocolate lovers.
• Serving Suggestions. This cinnamon roll bread is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better served warm with a dollop of butter, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1. Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven comes to temperature, generously prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by coating it thoroughly with a non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry bread ingredients: the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine these ingredients, ensuring the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This step is crucial for a consistent rise.

Step 2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, briefly whisk together the wet ingredients: the large egg, whole milk, and vegetable oil. Then, gently add this wet mixture to your dry ingredients. Mix until *just combined*. It’s very important not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in a tough, dry bread. You can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed, a hand mixer, or simply a rubber spatula to achieve this. Since you are not using yeast, there’s no need for warm milk, any temperature will work.

Step 3. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture. In a small, separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for your swirl. Stir them together until they are thoroughly mixed. This simple blend is what will create those beautiful, aromatic ribbons of flavor throughout your bread. Set this fragrant mixture aside; you’ll be using it in the next few steps.

Step 4. Layer the First Half of Batter. Carefully pour approximately half of your prepared bread batter into the greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan. This will form the first layer of your cinnamon roll bread, providing a solid base for the delightful swirl.

Step 5. Add the First Cinnamon Swirl. Now, evenly sprinkle about half of your reserved cinnamon swirl mixture directly on top of the batter in the loaf pan. Aim for good coverage. Next, take a knife (a butter knife or thin-bladed knife works well) and gently swirl it through the batter, creating beautiful ribbons of cinnamon. Don’t overdo the swirling; a few gentle passes are enough to create a marbled effect without fully mixing the cinnamon in.

Step 6. Complete the Layers. Pour the remaining bread batter on top of the first swirled layer, carefully spreading it out to cover the cinnamon mixture. Then, sprinkle the remaining half of the cinnamon swirl mixture generously over this top layer of batter. Again, use your knife to gently swirl this second layer of cinnamon into the batter. This dual-layer approach ensures that you get that fantastic cinnamon flavor and beautiful visual swirl throughout the entire loaf.

Step 7. Bake and Cool the Bread. Now it’s time to bake your delicious bread! Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes. Baking times can vary, so the best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This initial cooling in the pan helps the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling. After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely is essential before slicing to ensure the bread holds its shape and doesn’t fall apart.

Step 8. Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze. While the bread is cooling, prepare your glaze topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and one tablespoon of milk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk (half a teaspoon at a time) until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. Once the bread has completely cooled (this is important, or the glaze will melt right off!), drizzle the homemade glaze generously all over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and enjoying this wonderfully moist and flavorful cinnamon roll bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread

• Wait to Slice Until Completely Cool. This is perhaps the most important tip for quick breads! The bread needs to cool completely before slicing. Slicing warm bread can cause it to fall apart, creating a crumbly texture and preventing clean cuts. Patience is key for a perfect slice.
• Adjust the Glaze to Your Preference. The consistency of your glaze is crucial for a beautiful drizzle. You can easily adjust it by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker one. Aim for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon but still flows smoothly.
• Evenly Distribute the Cinnamon Mixture. When sprinkling the cinnamon swirl, ensure it covers the batter evenly. This guarantees that when swirled, the cinnamon penetrates every part of the bread, providing consistent flavor throughout the loaf.
• Do Not Overmix the Batter. Overmixing is a common pitfall in quick bread recipes. Mixing until *just combined* prevents the gluten in the flour from over-developing, which would result in a tough, dense, and chewy bread instead of a moist and tender one. Lumps are okay!
• Spoon and Level Your Flour. For precise measurements, always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Scooping flour directly from the bag can compact it, leading to too much flour and a dry, heavy bread.
• Test for Doneness Reliably. While baking times are a guide, ovens can vary. Always rely on the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached (no wet batter), your bread is perfectly baked.
• Cool in the Pan, Then on a Rack. Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for the first 10 minutes helps it firm up before moving. Transferring it to a wire rack after this initial period allows air to circulate around all sides, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

More **Quick Bread Recipes** You’ll Love

Quick breads are a fantastic category of baked goods, offering delicious results with minimal effort and no yeast required. They’re perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert, and always a hit. Just like this easy and utterly delicious Cinnamon Roll Bread recipe, our family also adores a variety of other quick bread creations. Be sure to explore our recipes for moist and flavorful Banana Bread, the subtly sweet and vibrant Cherry Bread, and the comforting, spice-filled Pumpkin Bread. Each of these recipes promises a delightful experience, bringing warmth and homemade goodness to your table with simplicity.

Don’t miss out on making this yummy Cinnamon Roll Bread today! It’s guaranteed to fill your home with an inviting aroma and your belly with pure delight. We would love for you to come back after you’ve tried it and leave a star recipe rating and a comment to share your experience! Your feedback helps us and other home bakers.