Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic cinnamon swirl bread, you’ve come to the right place! This Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread is a cozy, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience of baking something that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a family brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

What I adore about this bread is how simple it is to make, yet it feels so indulgent. You don’t need to worry about perfect swirls—every slice is packed with sweet flavor. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this beloved recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, this sourdough cinnamon sugar bread fits right in.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds with its irresistible flavor!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready for fresh-baked goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. For this Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread, you’ll need the following:

For the Dough

• 220 grams water
• 175 grams bread flour
• 175 grams all-purpose flour (plus extra for shaping, about 12 grams or 2 tbsp)
• 110 grams sourdough starter (active)
• 20 grams sugar
• 10 grams oil (neutral tasting oils work best)
• 7 grams salt

For the Filling

• 12 grams ground cinnamon
• 65 grams light brown sugar
• a splash heavy cream (milk or water work too)

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this wonderful bread!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with flavors and fillings.

• Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans as you layer the filling.
• Use Different Sugars: Switch up light brown sugar with coconut sugar for a unique flavor profile.
• Incorporate Dried Fruit: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for an added touch of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with your cinnamon for extra warmth and depth.

How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread

Step 1: Mix Your Dough

Start by combining your dough ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until all the flour is hydrated and no dry spots remain. The dough will be shaggy and sticky at this stage—that’s perfectly fine! Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to absorb water and helps develop gluten.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold

After the rest, perform 2-3 sets of stretch and folds every 30 minutes. To do this, grab a section of the dough, stretch it upward, and fold it over itself. Rotate the bowl and repeat on all four sides. This technique strengthens the dough and encourages good texture!

Step 3: Bulk Fermentation

Once you’ve completed your stretch and folds, cover the bowl again to prevent drying. Let it bulk ferment at room temperature until it has almost doubled in size. This process usually takes about 6 hours but depends on your kitchen’s warmth.

Step 4: Chill Your Dough

After bulk fermentation, cool your dough in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight if you prefer. Chilling helps develop flavor while making it easier to handle when shaping.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

Mix ground cinnamon and light brown sugar in a small bowl to create your filling. Shape your dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface, brush it lightly with heavy cream (or milk/water), then sprinkle on two-thirds of your cinnamon-sugar mixture. Fold the dough over itself from each short side like an envelope before sprinkling on more filling.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place your log seam-side down in a parchment-lined loaf pan for its second rise—this final proof gives shape and size to your bread! Allow it to rise at room temperature for about 2-4 hours or opt for an overnight cold proof if you want tangier bread.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats up, place an oven-safe dish filled with water on the bottom rack—it creates steam that helps form a nice crust! Score your loaf down the center gently with a sharp knife before brushing it with more cream/milk/water. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for around 50 minutes—remove foil last ten minutes for that beautiful golden crust! Once baked, cool on a wire rack before slicing—patience pays off here as cooling enhances flavor and texture!

And there you have it—a delicious Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread that’s perfect any day of the week! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread

Making sourdough cinnamon sugar bread can be a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use an active starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it. This helps the dough rise effectively, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest after mixing helps with gluten development. This makes stretching and shaping easier and improves the overall structure of your bread.
• Monitor your proofing time: Keep an eye on the dough during its second rise. The ideal proofing time can vary based on temperature; look for it to puff up nicely without over-proofing, which could lead to a dense loaf.
• Be gentle when scoring: Use a sharp blade to make a shallow cut down the center of the dough. This allows for even expansion during baking, contributing to a beautiful shape and texture.
• Cool completely before slicing: Patience is key! Letting your bread cool on a wire rack allows moisture to redistribute, ensuring each slice is perfect and not gummy.

How to Serve Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread

This sourdough cinnamon sugar bread is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of ways to present this delightful bread!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your bread look extra inviting.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of banana or berries complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully while adding color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Creamy yogurt: A side of plain or flavored yogurt provides a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Nut butter: Spread almond or cashew butter on warm slices for added richness and protein.
• Chia seed pudding: A light chia seed pudding offers a refreshing side that pairs well with the spiced flavors of cinnamon sugar bread.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances your experience, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be sure to impress everyone with your sourdough cinnamon sugar bread! Enjoy every delicious moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you always have something delicious on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Alternatively, keep it in an airtight container for better freshness.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, try to remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, simply toast them in a toaster until warm and slightly crispy.
• For larger portions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the bread in aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this recipe, you’ve come to the right place!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread?

Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly and may require additional hydration.

How do I know when my Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread is done baking?

Your bread is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Using a thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches around 190°F (88°C).

Can I add nuts or raisins to this Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or raisins into your dough after mixing. This will give your bread an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Bread as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or just a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy baking!