Cinnamon Bread with Icing
Cinnamon bread with icing is a delightful treat that fills your home with warm, sweet aromas. The combination of soft bread, aromatic cinnamon, and creamy icing makes it a perfect snack or breakfast option. Whether you’re cozying up with a book or sharing a moment with friends, a slice of cinnamon bread is more than just food; it’s a hug in a slice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
One of the best things about cinnamon bread is its comforting flavor and texture. This recipe is simple, and you don’t need to be a baking expert to make it. The bread itself is fluffy and slightly sweet, while the cinnamon swirls create a beautiful pattern that makes each slice a surprise. And let’s not forget about the icing on top—it adds a delicious finishing touch that elevates the bread to a whole new level of yumminess.
Additionally, the versatility of this recipe is a huge bonus. You can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. It’s a great dish to serve at gatherings. Imagine your friends and family gathering around a warm, freshly baked loaf of cinnamon bread, enjoying its irresistible aroma and flavor. This recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.
How to Prepare Cinnamon Bread with Icing
Now, let’s dive into preparing this scrumptious cinnamon bread. Follow along as we guide you through each step, ensuring you create a loaf that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread bakes evenly.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir them together until mixed well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk them until fully combined.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Set this aside for later use.
- Grease the Pan: Take a loaf pan and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Add the Cinnamon Filling: Sprinkle your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. Then, take the remaining batter and pour it over the cinnamon layer, smoothing it out.
- Swirl It: Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the top layer to mix the cinnamon filling slightly into the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing: While the bread cools, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk it until smooth. Adjust the milk to get your desired icing consistency.
- Icing the Bread: Once the bread is cool, drizzle the icing over the top using a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative look.
- Slice and Enjoy: Your cinnamon bread with icing is now ready to be served!
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread with Icing
Cinnamon bread with icing can be served in various ways. Slice it down the middle and serve it fresh from the oven for a warm treat. You can enjoy it plain or pair it with a cup of coffee or tea.
If you have friends over, serve it on a platter, and let everyone help themselves. A sprinkle of cinnamon or even chopped nuts on top can add a nice touch. For a breakfast treat, enjoy it with butter or cream cheese for added richness.
How to Store Cinnamon Bread with Icing
Storing your cinnamon bread properly will ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for longer. Here’s how you can do it:
- Room Temperature: Once cooled, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and store it at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep the bread a little longer, you can refrigerate it. However, wrapping it tightly is essential to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, cinnamon bread freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.
Tips for Preparing Cinnamon Bread with Icing
- Measuring Ingredients: Ensure you measure the ingredients accurately. Too much flour can make the bread dense, while too little can make it collapse.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid tough bread.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool before adding icing to prevent the icing from melting.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for a unique flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
Variations
While the classic cinnamon bread with icing is delicious, there are a few variations you can try:
- Nutty Cinnamon Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon filling for added texture and flavor.
- Fruit-Infused Bread: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a twist.
- Chocolate Swirl: Mix cocoa powder into the batter to create a chocolate cinnamon bread.
- Different Icings: Instead of milk icing, try a cream cheese icing or a maple glaze for a unique flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the bread may be denser. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose to lighten it up.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), and vegan butter. It may change the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious.
3. How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?
To make the icing thicker, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. To make it thinner, simply add more milk, a tablespoon at a time.
4. How long does the bread stay good?
If stored properly, cinnamon bread will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature, up to a week in the refrigerator, and up to 3 months in the freezer.
5. Can I use cinnamon sugar from a store?
Absolutely! Store-bought cinnamon sugar can save you time and still provide great flavor for your filling.
In conclusion, cinnamon bread with icing is a fantastic recipe that everyone can enjoy. It’s simple, delicious, and can be made with ingredients you probably already have at home. Get ready to delight your taste buds and those of your friends and family with this comforting treat! Happy baking!
