This Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread is a soft, moist, and flavorful loaf with a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s easy to make, requires no yeast, and is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with coffee or tea. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar makes this a comforting and nostalgic homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No Yeast Needed – This is a quick bread, meaning no yeast or rising time is required.
✔ Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
✔ Delicious Flavor – A buttery, sweet cinnamon flavor in every bite.
✔ Perfect Texture – Soft and tender on the inside with a slightly crisp, sugary crust.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
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2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for the bread.
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1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness.
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1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
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1 teaspoon baking soda – Works with baking powder for a perfect texture.
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½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice.
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds moisture and richness.
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2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and provides structure.
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1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk) – Keeps the bread tender and moist.
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Helps the topping stick.
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¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness.
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – For a warm and flavorful topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing clumps.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
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½ cup melted unsalted butter
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2 eggs
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1 cup milk (or buttermilk)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Do not overmix—mix just until the batter is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a soft and tender one.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
Transfer the batter to the prepared 9×5-inch loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when:
✅ A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
✅ The top is golden brown.
✅ The bread has pulled away slightly from the sides of the pan.
Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the bread is baking, prepare the topping:
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In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
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Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a separate bowl.
Step 8: Add the Topping
Once the bread is out of the oven and still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it. This adds a crispy, sweet crust.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Storage and Freezing Tips
Room Temperature:
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Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator:
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Keep in the fridge for up to a week. Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Freezer:
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Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
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To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Recipe Variations and Additions
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Cinnamon Swirl Bread – Swirl extra cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking.
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Nutty Version – Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
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Glazed Topping – Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
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Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread – Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips.
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Pumpkin Spice Twist – Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a fall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
🍵 With Coffee or Tea – The perfect pairing for breakfast or a cozy snack.
🍨 With Ice Cream – Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
🍓 With Fruit – Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a refreshing touch.
🍯 With Honey or Jam – Spread with honey, butter, or fruit preserves for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes! Brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Why is my quick bread dry?
This can happen if you overbake it or use too much flour. Make sure to measure correctly and check for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
How do I make the bread extra moist?
Using buttermilk instead of milk makes the bread even more tender. You can also add 1 tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles well—just bake in two loaf pans and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Quick Bread is a simple, classic treat that anyone can make at home. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, its buttery cinnamon-sugar topping and moist interior will make it a household favorite. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you can make it your own!
