Few things beat the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with warm cinnamon and a touch of sweetness. Our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread recipe captures that perfect blend of soft, tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon swirl that makes every bite irresistible. This beloved bread has become a staple for cozy breakfasts and comforting snacks.
We’ve simplified the process so you can enjoy this bakery favorite right from your own kitchen. Whether you’re new to bread baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe guides you through creating a loaf that’s bursting with cinnamon flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Get ready to fill your home with the inviting scent of homemade cinnamon bread that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.
Ingredients
To bake our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that ensure the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and that iconic cinnamon swirl. Below, we break down everything we need to create this delicious loaf.
Dry Ingredients
We start by assembling our dry ingredients, which form the foundation of our bread’s texture and structure.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, to add subtle sweetness
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, for balanced flavor
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet), to leaven the bread
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, for the warm base flavor
| Dry Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 1/2 cups | Structure, texture |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetness |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancement |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 teaspoons | Leavening agent |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Warm spice component |
Wet Ingredients
Next, we combine the wet ingredients which hydrate our dough and create that tender crumb.
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to deepen flavor notes
| Wet Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Warmed 110°F (43°C) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup | Melted, slightly cooled |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth to flavor |
Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
This luscious swirl defines the Cinnamon Burst by infusing every slice with rich, sweet cinnamon goodness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed for caramel sweetness
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, the star spice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened for easy spreading
| Swirl Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Packed for sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons | Provides the signature swirl |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Softened for optimal spread |
With all our ingredients prepped precisely we are ready to proceed to the rewarding process of mixing and baking this classic Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread.
Equipment Needed
To craft the Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread with perfect texture and flavor, having the right equipment is essential. Using these tools ensures a smooth baking process and consistent results every time.
- Large Mixing Bowl
We need a spacious bowl for combining and kneading the dough comfortably without losing ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement is key. Use precise measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients and spoons for smaller quantities like yeast and cinnamon.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional)
For hands-off kneading, a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook speeds up the process and develops the gluten thoroughly.
- Rolling Pin
Essential for flattening the dough evenly to create the signature cinnamon swirl layer.
- Loaf Pan (9 x 5 inches recommended)
We shape and bake the bread in a standard loaf pan to achieve the classic appearance and perfect crust.
- Pastry Brush
This helps evenly spread melted butter for the cinnamon swirl and optionally brush the crust before baking.
- Plastic Wrap or Kitchen Towel
For covering the dough while it rises, keeping it moist and warm.
- Cooling Rack
Once baked, the bread needs to cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess and maintain a crisp crust.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine and knead dough | Minimum 4-quart capacity |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients accurately | Essential for recipe precision |
| Stand Mixer (Optional) | Efficient dough kneading | Saves time and effort |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough evenly | Helps create distinct swirls |
| Loaf Pan (9×5 in) | Shape and bake bread | Non-stick or greased preferred |
| Pastry Brush | Apply butter or egg wash | For cinnamon spread and crust |
| Plastic Wrap/Kitchen Towel | Cover dough during proofing | Maintains moisture and warmth |
| Cooling Rack | Cool bread post-baking | Prevents moisture buildup |
Using this equipment, we prepare to make the Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread flawlessly, setting the stage for a delightful baking experience.
Prep Work
Before we dive into baking our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread, it’s essential to properly prepare the dough and the cinnamon swirl to ensure the most flavorful and soft bread. Let’s get started with these foundational steps.
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warmed whole milk (110°F to 115°F) with the active dry yeast and a pinch of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates our yeast is alive and ready.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. This helps evenly distribute the cinnamon flavor throughout our bread.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, blend the melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is warm, not hot, to avoid cooking the egg prematurely.
- Form the Dough:
Pour the yeast mixture and wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
- Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead vigorously for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky. Alternatively, use a stand mixer on medium speed for 7 minutes. Proper kneading develops the gluten, giving the bread its soft texture.
- First Rise:
Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1½ hours or until doubled in size.
Making the Cinnamon Swirl
- Combine Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until you achieve a thick, spreadable paste.
- Consistency Check:
The mixture should be smooth and easy to spread but not runny. Adjust with more softened butter for creaminess or more brown sugar for sweetness if needed.
- Preparation for Rolling:
Once our dough has completed the first rise, we’ll roll it out and generously brush this cinnamon swirl mixture, creating the signature burst inside our bread.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Packed |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Softened unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Soft but not melted |
This prep work is crucial for infusing our bread with that irresistible aroma and taste. Next, we move on to layering the swirl and shaping the dough for baking.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread that boasts a soft texture and a perfectly swirled cinnamon flavor in every bite.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and active dry yeast.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: warmed whole milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed.
- Mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead for 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes using the mixer on medium speed. The dough should be smooth and elastic but slightly sticky.
First Rise
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased large bowl.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel to retain moisture.
- Let the dough sit in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
| Step | Time Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing dough | 10-12 minutes | Use stand mixer or knead by hand |
| First rise | 1 to 1.5 hours | Dough should double in size |
Rolling and Adding Cinnamon Swirl
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12 x 8 inches.
- Evenly spread the cinnamon swirl mixture (brown sugar, ground cinnamon, softened butter) over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting at the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, keeping the swirl intact.
Shaping the Loaf
- Pinch the seam and ends of the rolled dough to seal.
- Place the dough seam-side down into a greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Gently tuck the ends under if needed to create a neat loaf shape that fits snugly inside the pan.
Second Rise
- Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 45-60 minutes until it has doubled again and rises about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
| Step | Time Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling & adding swirl | 10 minutes | Roll into rectangle, spread cinnamon mixture, roll into log |
| Shaping loaf | 2-3 minutes | Seal and place into loaf pan |
| Second rise | 45-60 minutes | Dough doubles and rises above pan rim |
Baking the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the loaf on the center rack for 35-40 minutes.
- The bread is done when the crust is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 190°F (88°C).
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with melted butter for a soft, glossy crust.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Use this precise approach to enjoy the full sensory delight of our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread—warm cinnamon aroma, tender crumb, and luscious swirl in every slice.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Burst Bread
Baking the Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread to perfection requires attention to a few key details. Here are our expert tips to ensure each loaf comes out soft, flavorful, and beautifully swirled with cinnamon:
Choose the Right Yeast and Proof It Properly
Activate active dry yeast in warm milk around 105°F to 110°F. Yeast that is too hot or too cold will not activate well, impacting how much the dough rises. We recommend using a food thermometer for accuracy.
| Yeast Activation Temperature | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Below 100°F | Slow or no rise |
| 105°F to 110°F | Optimal rise |
| Above 115°F | Kills yeast |
“Proper yeast activation is the foundation for the perfect rise and soft texture of our Cinnamon Burst Bread.”
Use Fresh Ingredients and Measure Exactly
Use fresh ground cinnamon for that bright, aromatic flavor. Measure all dry and wet ingredients precisely using proper measuring cups or spoons. Accurate measurements guarantee consistent dough texture and sweet cinnamon swirl.
Knead the Dough Until Smooth and Elastic
Knead until the dough feels smooth and elastic—about 8 to 10 minutes by hand or 5 to 7 minutes with a mixer. Under-kneading results in dense bread. To test: gently poke the dough. If it springs back slightly, it’s ready.
Let the Dough Rise Twice, Covered and Warm
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot (around 75°F to 85°F). Allow it to double in size during the first rise. After shaping with the cinnamon swirl, let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes before baking. This creates the characteristic light and fluffy crumb.
Roll Out Dough Evenly and Spread Cinnamon Swirl Generously
Roll the dough into a consistent 12 x 9-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly but don’t overload it. Too much filling can make the bread soggy; too little results in weak cinnamon flavor.
Use a Sharp Knife for Clean Slices
Once baked and cooled on a rack, slice the bread with a serrated bread knife to keep the swirls intact and avoid squashing the loaf.
Bake at the Correct Temperature and Don’t Overbake
Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes until the top turns golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Overbaking dries out the bread and dulls the cinnamon aroma.
“The golden crust and delightful cinnamon scent are the final testaments of perfectly baked Cinnamon Burst Bread.”
Optional: Brush Melted Butter Immediately After Baking
Brush the hot bread with melted unsalted butter to add extra moisture and shine. This enhances the bread’s softness and gives it a beautiful finish.
By following these tips, our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread will rise perfectly each time producing a soft crumb bursting with cinnamon sweetness and an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To keep our Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. After the bread cools completely on a cooling rack, we recommend the following methods:
- Short-Term Storage: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and the delightful cinnamon aroma.
- Long-Term Storage: For extended freshness, slice the bread first, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or place them in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw slices at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Wrap tightly in plastic or airtight container |
| Freezer (Sliced) | Up to 3 months | Wrap each slice; thaw or toast before serving |
When it comes to serving suggestions, our Cinnamon Burst Bread shines in a variety of ways. Here are some of our favorite ideas:
- Toast it warm and spread with a generous layer of butter or cream cheese for a rich, creamy complement to the cinnamon sweetness.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup to enhance the natural sugars in the bread without overpowering the cinnamon twist.
- Pair with a hot beverage like cinnamon-spiced coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider for a cozy, inviting snack.
- Use slices for French toast, soaking the bread briefly in an egg mixture to create a decadent breakfast treat bursting with cinnamon flavor.
- Create a dessert bread pudding by layering slices with custard and baking until golden and custardy inside.
“The magic of Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread is how deeply the warmth and sweetness carry through, making every bite a comforting experience.”
For presentation, slice the bread evenly with a sharp serrated knife to showcase the beautiful cinnamon swirls inside. Serve on a rustic wooden board or warm ceramic plate to enhance the homemade feel for your family or guests.
By following these storage and serving suggestions, we ensure every slice of our Cinnamon Burst Bread stays irresistibly fresh and bursting with flavor whenever we enjoy it.
Conclusion
Baking Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread at home brings a wonderful sense of accomplishment and warmth to any kitchen. It’s a recipe that invites us to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh-baked bread with a rich cinnamon swirl.
With just a few quality ingredients and some patience, we can create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Once you’ve tried it, this bread will surely become a staple in your baking routine, filling your home with an irresistible aroma and flavor every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread?
You need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, active dry yeast, ground cinnamon, warmed whole milk, melted unsalted butter, a large egg, vanilla extract, and a cinnamon swirl made from brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter.
What equipment is required to bake this bread?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, optionally a stand mixer with a dough hook, rolling pin, 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, pastry brush, plastic wrap or kitchen towel, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the dough and cinnamon swirl?
Activate the yeast, mix dry and wet ingredients, knead the dough until smooth, then let it rise. Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter to spread evenly on the rolled-out dough.
What are the main steps for baking this bread?
Combine and knead ingredients, let the dough rise twice, roll out the dough, add the cinnamon swirl, shape the loaf, preheat the oven, bake until golden, and brush with melted butter for a glossy finish.
How can I ensure my bread turns out soft and flavorful?
Use fresh yeast, knead until elastic, allow two proper rises in a warm spot, roll dough evenly, spread the cinnamon swirl generously, bake at the right temperature, and brush the top with melted butter after baking.
How should I store Great Harvest Cinnamon Burst Bread?
For short-term, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For long-term, slice, wrap individual pieces, and freeze up to 3 months.
What are some serving suggestions for this cinnamon bread?
Toast with butter or cream cheese, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, pair with hot drinks, use for French toast, or make a dessert bread pudding. Serve sliced evenly on a rustic board or plate for best presentation.