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If you are looking for a cozy, sweet treat that fills your kitchen with intoxicating warmth, the Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful loaf marries a tender, moist crumb with ribbons of cinnamon sugar that melt into each bite, all topped with a smooth, sweet vanilla icing that elevates it to pure comfort food perfection. Whether you want an inviting breakfast, a snack alongside afternoon tea, or a simple dessert, this bread offers that perfect balance of spice and sweetness that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two close-up scenes on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is a white bowl filled with a light brown, fine powder that has a smooth, swirled pattern on top. On the right, a clear glass bowl contains four different ingredients that are not yet mixed: a large section of light brown sugar, a mound of white powdered sugar, a smaller pile of light beige flour, and a small amount of white baking powder or soda arranged in the center. No utensils or hands are visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe uses a handful of essential, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a luscious loaf. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the gentle sweetness of brown sugar to the richness of whole milk and the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, all combining to make the texture just right and the flavor utterly irresistible.

⅔ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the crunchy cinnamon swirl layer.
1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and signature flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumb for the bread.
1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings deeper caramel notes and moisture.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the bread rises to a soft and fluffy texture.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
⅔ cup whole milk: Keeps the bread tender and moist.
½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moistness while keeping the crumb soft and not too dense.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors with a lovely fragrant note.
1 cup powdered sugar: For the smooth vanilla icing that finishes off the bread with sweetness.
2–3 Tablespoons milk or heavy cream: Adjusts the icing to your perfect drizzle consistency.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the icing with gentle vanilla flavor to complement the cinnamon inside.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your pan and cinnamon sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or generously grease it if you prefer not to use parchment. Then combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing well – this cinnamon sugar will create that irresistible swirl throughout the bread.

Step 2: Mix your dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and baking powder until evenly combined. This mixture forms the base of your bread, ensuring that every piece will be delightfully tender and packed with flavor.

Step 3: Add wet ingredients to the dry

Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add in the egg, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the batter comes together smoothly—be careful not to overmix as you want a tender crumb in your final bread.

Step 4: Layer the batter and cinnamon sugar

Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top. Add the remaining batter on top of this layer, and finish by scattering the remaining cinnamon sugar across the surface for that beautiful, cinnamon-kissed crust.

Step 5: Bake to golden perfection

Bake your loaf for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, signaling that your bread is close to being ready. Let it cool completely in the pan before the next step.

Step 6: Prepare and drizzle the vanilla icing

Whisk powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream and the vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness with a little more liquid or powdered sugar until you get your perfect drizzle consistency. Spread or drizzle the icing over the cooled bread, adding that extra touch of sweetness and vanilla goodness that makes this bread unforgettable.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a single cinnamon roll on a white marbled surface. The roll has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a golden-brown dough, the middle layer has a dark cinnamon swirl, and the top layer is a light golden-brown crust sprinkled with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Thick white icing drips down from the top, covering parts of the roll and pooling slightly on the surface below. The texture of the roll looks soft and fluffy, with a slightly crunchy top where the sugar sits. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra flair and added texture, try sprinkling some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the vanilla icing while it’s still wet. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few cinnamon sticks alongside your slices can also enhance presentation and aroma beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries which provide a nice contrast to the sweet, spiced bread. A steaming mug of chai tea or a rich cup of coffee makes for the perfect beverage companion that complements the warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and serve it warm with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese for a luscious breakfast upgrade. You can even transform slices into French toast for a special brunch or cut them into cubes for a spectacular bread pudding, truly showcasing the versatility of this Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week without losing that baked-from-scratch charm.

Freezing

If you want to save this deliciousness for longer, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked taste, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Adding a thin spread of butter while warming will melt perfectly and make it taste like it just came out of the oven again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for the Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best for the texture and rise in this recipe, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Just note that substitutions may affect the bread’s lightness and crumb slightly.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper is recommended because it helps remove the bread cleanly from the pan and prevents sticking. However, if you don’t have it, a good nonstick spray, especially one with flour, will also work well.

Can I make the cinnamon swirl part more pronounced?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon sugar or create multiple thin layers throughout the batter for a bolder swirl and more cinnamon flavor in every bite.

What if I want a milk-free version of this recipe?

You can substitute the whole milk with plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk. This swap works well without compromising the moisture and texture of the bread.

How thick should I slice the Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe?

Slices about ¾ inch thick are perfect—they hold together well and showcase the beautiful cinnamon swirl and icing while making each bite satisfyingly soft.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cinnamon Swirl Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe, it’s likely to become a go-to treat in your home. The warm cinnamon spice, tender crumb, and luscious vanilla drizzle come together in such a comforting way, it’s like wrapping your taste buds in a cozy hug. So gather those simple ingredients, bake up a loaf, and enjoy the smiles and crumbs that follow—you deserve a little slice of happiness!

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