Sweet Cinnamon Crust Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.

1. Mix the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, salt, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.

1. Add Flour:

• Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the flour amount slightly.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Bread

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar:

• In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

1. Punch Down and Shape:

• Punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

1. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each rectangle.

1. Roll Up:

• Starting from one edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal.

1. Place in Pan:

• Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Repeat with the second portion of dough. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Bake and Glaze

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Bake the Bread:

• Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

1. Cool:

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Glaze (optional):

• If using the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with milk or heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Step 4: Serve

1. Enjoy:

• Slice and serve the Sweet Cinnamon Crust Bread warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a spread of butter.

Tips:

• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed. If too dry, add a little more milk.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar to your taste. You can also add nuts or raisins to the filling if you like.

This Sweet Cinnamon Crust Bread is a delightful treat with a sweet, cinnamon-sugar crust and a soft, fluffy interior—perfect for any time of day!