Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Bread in the Bread Machine

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked cinnamon bread filling your kitchen. This step-by-step guide will help you create a sweet, golden loaf brimming with cinnamon sugar goodness using your trusty bread machine. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced enthusiast, this recipe promises to deliver a moist, tender crumb, a swirl of cinnamon, and a hint of sugary crust — making it a delightful treat for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Bread Machine Baking
• Recipe Variations and Add-Ins
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage and Freezing Guide
• Nutritional Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Cinnamon bread is a classic treat, beloved for its soft texture and layers of aromatic cinnamon sugar. This bread machine version streamlines the process — it’s as simple as loading the pan and letting the machine do the heavy lifting. The result is a golden, homey loaf that’s suited to everything from a leisurely breakfast spread to a delightful afternoon snack.

This recipe takes advantage of a direct bread machine method, but also provides helpful techniques for incorporating the cinnamon sugar blend in a way that creates a beautiful swirl without overwhelming the crumb. If you’ve been looking to fill your home with the irresistible scent (and taste!) of freshly-baked cinnamon bread, your search ends here.

Ingredients

For best results, gather all ingredients and allow refrigerated items to come to room temperature before starting.

• 1 cup milk (room temperature, whole or 2% preferred)
• 1/4 cup water (room temperature)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp bread machine or active dry yeast

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread Pan: Insert the kneading blade into your bread machine pan. Always check this before adding your ingredients.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk and water. Crack the egg into a small dish, beat lightly, then add to the pan. Next, add the softened butter, scattering it in small pieces for even distribution.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Spoon the flour over the wet ingredients, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the salt and 3 tablespoons of sugar over the flour.
4. Add Yeast: Make a small well (not to the wet layer) in the flour and add the yeast to keep it dry until the kneading starts.
5. Set the Bread Machine: Select the ‘Sweet’ or ‘Basic’ bread cycle. Choose a light or medium crust setting based on preference. Most loaves will take approximately 3 hours.
6. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling: While the bread machine mixes, stir together 1/3 cup sugar and 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon in a bowl.
7. Add Filling (Swirl Technique): When the dough has finished its first kneading cycle (before the first rise), pause the machine if possible. Remove the dough (use oiled hands). Flatten gently into a rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar, reserving 1-2 teaspoons.
   • Roll the dough into a log, pinch the ends, and replace it in the pan seam-side down.
   • Alternatively, if your bread machine allows, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar directly on top of the dough before the final shaping/kneading occurs.
8. Resume Program: Let the machine complete the cycle — it will rise and bake the dough automatically.
9. Add Topping (Optional): In the last 10–15 minutes of baking (if accessible), sprinkle the reserved cinnamon sugar over the top for a crispy, sweet finish.
10. Cool and Slice: Once the baking cycle ends, carefully remove the pan using oven mitts. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Bread Machine Baking

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough rise more evenly. Cold milk or eggs can slow down yeast activity!
• Don’t Overload the Bread Machine: Stick to the ingredient quantities specified. Too much dough can overflow and cause uneven baking.
• Prevent Streaking: When adding the cinnamon sugar filling, keep it away from the very edges. Over-exposure to the pan edges can cause the swirl to separate from the loaf.
• Check Dough Consistency: After the first 5-10 minutes, check the dough’s texture (pause the machine if possible): it should be sticky but not overly wet. Add a tablespoon of flour or water as needed.
• Slice Carefully: Let the bread cool fully to avoid tearing the swirl. Use a serrated knife for clean slices.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ins

This bread is endlessly customizable. Here are several delicious variations to inspire your next loaf:

• Raisin Cinnamon Bread: Add 1/2 cup raisins to the dough during the ‘add-ins’ signal (if your machine has one), or gently knead them in when shaping.
• Nutty Cinnamon Bread: Chopped pecans or walnuts (about 1/2 cup) make a crunchy addition inside or sprinkled on top.
• Brown Sugar Swirl: Substitute brown sugar for white in the filling for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Whole Wheat Variation: Replace up to 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of extra water.
• Apple-Cinnamon Bread: Mix in 1/2 cup finely chopped dried apples with the cinnamon swirl for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon sugar bread is delicious warm from the oven or toasted the next day. Try these creative serving ideas:

• Spread with softened butter or cream cheese for a decadent breakfast.
• Use as the base for French toast — simply soak thick slices in egg and milk, then cook on a skillet.
• Cut into cubes for bread pudding.
• Top with whipped cream and berries for a dessert-y treat.
• Pair with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy snack.

Storage and Freezing Guide

Fresh homemade bread is best enjoyed within 2–3 days, but it also keeps well for future enjoyment.

• Room Temperature: Store in a sealed bread bag or airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it can dry out bread quickly unless your kitchen is very humid.
• Freezing: Allow loaf to cool fully, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze whole or sliced for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or briefly toast slices for best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Specific nutritional values may vary based on precise ingredients and serving size, but a typical slice (1/12th of a loaf) made as described contains approximately:

Keep in mind: these estimates don’t include add-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or extra toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of bread machine yeast?

A: Yes! Both bread machine yeast and instant yeast can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Active dry yeast requires proofing in warm liquid before adding; instant or bread machine yeast does not.

Q: Do I need to remove the dough to add the cinnamon swirl?

A: For the best swirl, it’s recommended to briefly remove the dough after the first knead and before rising. However, if your bread machine beeps for add-ins, you can gently add the filling at that point without removing the dough completely.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Bread machines have strict capacity limits. Doubling the recipe may cause overflow or uneven baking. Stick to your machine’s recommended flour and liquid capacities.

Q: Why did my cinnamon swirl separate from the bread?

A: This can happen if the filling layer is too thick or too close to the edges during shaping. Try leaving a 1-inch border and rolling the dough tightly.

Q: Can I make this bread without a bread machine?

A: Yes! You can mix and knead the dough by hand or in a stand mixer, shape and swirl as described, and bake in a loaf pan at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and set.

Final Thoughts

This bread machine cinnamon sugar bread strikes the perfect balance of convenience and homemade goodness. Warm, fragrant, and endlessly versatile, it’s bound to become a household favorite. With just a handful of simple pantry staples and your bread machine, you’ll enjoy bakery-quality bread anytime — ideal for sharing with friends and family or savoring solo with your morning coffee. Try customizing it with your favorite add-ins and savor the results!

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Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to LifePortico,  crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete