Easy Cinnamon Bread Recipe: 8 Ingredients, 15 Minutes Prep

This easy cinnamon bread recipe requires just 8 basic pantry ingredients, takes 15 minutes to prepare, and bakes in 45 minutes. The foolproof method uses no yeast, no special equipment, and delivers a perfectly spiced, moist loaf with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. Unlike complicated cinnamon roll recipes, this straightforward version is ideal for beginners yet satisfying enough for experienced bakers.

Looking for a simpler alternative to cinnamon rolls that still delivers that beloved sweet, spiced flavor? This easy cinnamon bread recipe solves the common frustrations of traditional cinnamon pastry recipes - no yeast proofing, no complicated rolling techniques, and no special equipment required. You'll get a tender, aromatic loaf with visible cinnamon swirls and a delightful sugary crust using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why This Easy Cinnamon Bread Recipe Works

Many "simple" cinnamon bread recipes still require multiple rising periods or specialized techniques. This version stands out as genuinely easy because:

• No yeast needed - Uses baking powder and baking soda for reliable rise
• One-bowl method - Minimal cleanup with just one mixing bowl required
• Pantry staples only - No unusual ingredients or specialty flours
• Clear visual cues - Describes exactly what the batter should look like at each stage
• Forgiving texture - Moist crumb that stays fresh for days

Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Bread

What makes this easy cinnamon bread recipe for beginners so accessible is its straightforward ingredient list. All measurements are precise for consistent results:

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters
All-purpose flour	2 cups (250g)	Provides structure without requiring special handling
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup (150g)	Sweetness base that also helps create tender crumb
Baking powder	1 1/2 tsp	Ensures consistent rise without yeast complications
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp	Freshly ground delivers best flavor (don't use old spice!)
Salt	1/2 tsp	Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor
Buttermilk	1 cup (240ml)	Creates moist texture; substitute with milk + 1 tbsp vinegar
Eggs	2 large	Provides structure and richness
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup (113g), melted	Adds richness; can substitute with vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions for Foolproof Cinnamon Bread

Follow these clear steps for a simple cinnamon bread with minimal ingredients that turns out perfectly every time:

1. Preheat and prepare - Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper leaving overhang on two sides.
2. Mix dry ingredients - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and salt until no lumps remain.
3. Combine wet ingredients - In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. Pour into dry ingredients.
4. Mix batter - Stir with rubber spatula just until combined (do not overmix). Batter should be thick but pourable with some small lumps.
5. Create cinnamon swirl - In small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Pour half the batter into prepared pan, sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar, repeat layers.
6. Bake - Bake 40-45 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Internal temperature should reach 190-200°F.
7. Cool completely - Let cool in pan 10 minutes, then use parchment overhang to lift out. Cool completely on wire rack before slicing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with this easy cinnamon bread recipe no special equipment required, beginners often make these errors:

• Overmixing batter - Leads to tough, dense bread. Stir until just combined.
• Using old baking powder - Test by mixing 1 tsp with hot water; should bubble vigorously.
• Cutting too soon - Wait at least 2 hours for clean slices; bread continues cooking as it cools.
• Incorrect pan size - Using too small a pan causes overflow; 9x5 inch is essential.
• Dry ingredients not whisked - Clumped baking powder creates uneven rise.

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoy your best easy cinnamon bread recipe at its peak flavor:

• Serving - Best at room temperature. Pair with coffee or tea. For special occasions, serve with cream cheese frosting.
• Storage - Keep in airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The cinnamon flavor actually improves on day 2.
• Freezing - Wrap tightly in plastic wrap then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Reviving - If bread dries slightly, warm individual slices in microwave for 10 seconds with a damp paper towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy cinnamon bread recipe without buttermilk?

Yes, create a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup regular milk. Let sit 5 minutes until slightly curdled before using. This simple cinnamon bread with minimal ingredients works perfectly with this substitution.

Why did my cinnamon bread sink in the middle?

Sinking usually happens when the batter is overmixed (developing too much gluten) or when the oven temperature is too high. For this foolproof cinnamon bread recipe, ensure you stir just until combined and verify your oven temperature with an independent thermometer.

Can I double this easy cinnamon bread recipe?

Yes, but use two loaf pans rather than one larger pan. Doubling in a single pan creates uneven baking and potential overflow. This cinnamon bread recipe with common pantry items scales perfectly when baked in separate pans.

How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from sinking to the bottom?

For the best cinnamon bread recipe with step-by-step instructions, make sure your batter is thick enough to support the cinnamon layer. The ideal consistency is like thick pancake batter. If your batter seems too thin, add 1-2 tablespoons more flour before layering.