Cinnamon Chip Bread from Great Harvest is a beloved classic that combines the warmth of cinnamon with sweet bursts of cinnamon chips in every bite. This bread has a soft, tender crumb and a slightly sweet flavor that makes it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. It’s a comforting treat that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes.
We love how this recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness while being simple to make. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this bread offers a delicious way to enjoy the cozy flavors of cinnamon anytime. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in our baking routine.
Ingredients
To bake our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest Recipe, we rely on a balanced combination of Dry Ingredients, Wet Ingredients, and the star of the show—Cinnamon Chips. Each component is essential to achieve the bread’s signature soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor.
Dry Ingredients
We start with the dry ingredients which form the structure and flavor base of the bread.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bind everything together and contribute to the bread’s tender crumb.
- 1 cup milk (at room temperature)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Chips
The distinct sweet cinnamon flavor comes from the generous fold of cinnamon chips.
- 1 cup Cinnamon Chips
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | |
| Wet Ingredients | Milk (room temperature) | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | 1/3 cup | |
| Large eggs (beaten) | 2 | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Cinnamon Chips | Cinnamon chips | 1 cup |
This precise mix is what makes our Cinnamon Chip Bread a deliciously soft, tender, and delightfully sweet bread every time we bake it.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest Recipe, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures consistent results and enhances your baking experience. Below is a carefully curated list of the tools we recommend using for this recipe.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | To measure precise amounts of flour, sugar, spices, and liquids |
| Whisk | To blend wet ingredients smoothly and incorporate air |
| Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula | For folding ingredients and scraping the bowl |
| 9×5 Inch Loaf Pan | Essential for shaping the bread and achieving the proper crust |
| Cooling Rack | To cool the bread evenly and prevent sogginess |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures the oven reaches the ideal baking temperature of 350°F |
We emphasize the 9×5 inch loaf pan because it is key to the characteristic shape and thickness of cinnamon chip bread. Using a pan that is too large or too small affects baking time and texture.
For mixing, using a sturdy wooden spoon or a flexible silicone spatula helps us gently fold in the cinnamon chips without breaking them up, preserving the delightful pockets of cinnamon flavor throughout the bread.
Finally, a cooling rack is vital to let the bread cool completely without steam buildup, which maintains the soft yet slightly crusty texture we love in Great Harvest’s cinnamon chip bread.
Having these tools ready before starting will streamline the baking process and help us achieve consistent, bakery-quality results every time.
Prep Work
Before diving into mixing and baking, proper prep work sets the foundation for our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest recipe. Let’s ensure everything is ready so our bread turns out perfect every time.
Preparing the Yeast
Even though this recipe uses baking powder instead of yeast, it is important to note the preparation of leavening agents for similar breads. For recipes calling for yeast:
- Always start by dissolving yeast in warm (not hot) water or milk, ideally between 100°F to 110°F, to activate it.
- Let the yeast sit for about 5 minutes. It should become foamy, signaling it’s ready.
- If the yeast does not foam, discard and start again with fresh yeast, as inactive yeast will affect the rise and crumb.
Since our Cinnamon Chip Bread uses baking powder as a leavening agent, we skip this step, but understanding yeast preparation primes us for similar bread making.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate ingredient measurement is crucial for the soft texture and balanced cinnamon flavor we’re aiming for. We recommend the following measurements and tips:
| Ingredient Type | Key Notes | Measurement Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon | Use dry measuring cups, spoon flour in lightly, level with a straight edge |
| Wet Ingredients | Milk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract | Use liquid measuring cups, measure on a flat surface for accuracy |
| Cinnamon Chips | Add last, gently folded in | Measure with a standard dry cup, avoid crushing chips |
Pro Tip: Always measure your ingredients before mixing to streamline the baking process and avoid missed steps.
By preparing our leavening agents and measuring our ingredients precisely, we set the stage for the delightful results that make Great Harvest’s Cinnamon Chip Bread so beloved.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest recipe come to life with its signature tender crumb and sweet, cinnamon-rich flavor.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents and cinnamon flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 cup milk, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, 2 large beaten eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully blended.
- Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Mix just until all ingredients are moistened—be careful not to overmix, as this affects the bread’s softness.
- Fold in 1 cup of cinnamon chips evenly into the batter, distributing the sweet pockets of cinnamon flavor throughout.
Kneading the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead gently for about 2 to 3 minutes to develop a smooth, cohesive dough texture.
- Use light, folding motions without pressing too hard to maintain the bread’s tender crumb.
- If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle small amounts of flour to manage stickiness but avoid adding too much to keep the bread soft.
| Step | Duration | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer | Immediate | Use a floured surface |
| Knead gently | 2 to 3 minutes | Use light folding motions |
First Rise
- Lightly grease a large bowl with vegetable oil.
- Place the kneaded dough in the bowl, turning it over once to coat all sides with oil to prevent drying.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- Allow the dough to rise at room temperature—ideally between 75°F and 80°F—for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Do not rush this step; the rise is essential to achieve the soft, airy texture characteristic of our Cinnamon Chip Bread.
Adding Cinnamon Chips and Shaping the Loaf
Once our dough has completed its first rise and doubled in size, it’s time to bring in the star ingredient — the cinnamon chips — and shape the loaf for baking.
Folding in the Cinnamon Chips
- Begin by gently turning the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Using a silicone spatula or your hands, fold in 1 cup of cinnamon chips evenly throughout the dough.
- Be careful to distribute the chips uniformly without overworking the dough. This method helps maintain the tender crumb that defines our cinnamon chip bread.
Shaping the Loaf
- After the chips are mixed in, shape the dough into a smooth little loaf.
- To do this, fold the dough edges toward the center, pinching seams closed on the bottom.
- Roll the loaf gently back and forth to create a cylindrical shape about 8-9 inches long.
- Place the shaped dough seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. This pan size is essential for creating the ideal bread height and crust thickness.
Final Assembly Overview
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Folding in cinnamon chips | Fold 1 cup into dough | Avoid over-mixing to keep crumb tender |
| Shaping the loaf | Form into smooth cylinder | Pinch seams and shape for even rising |
| Placing in pan | Put seam-side down in greased pan | 9×5-inch pan creates ideal loaf dimensions |
Following these precise steps ensures the signature cinnamon swirls and melt-in-your-mouth texture Great Harvest Cinnamon Chip Bread is known for. By folding in the cinnamon chips carefully and shaping the loaf with intention, we prepare our dough to rise just right and bake into that irresistible golden crust.
Second Rise
After placing the shaped dough seam-side down into the greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, it’s time for the Second Rise, which is crucial for developing the bread’s soft texture and light crumb.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Second Rise
- Cover the loaf pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. This prevents the dough from drying out while allowing it to rise evenly.
- Let the dough rise at room temperature—ideally between 70°F and 75°F—until it nearly doubles in size. This usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
- To check readiness, gently press your finger into the dough surface: if the indentation springs back slowly but remains visible, the dough is perfectly risen and ready for baking.
- Avoid letting the dough overproof; if the dough collapses or flattens, the bread may lose its airy texture.
| Factor | Optimal Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C) | Room temperature works best |
| Duration | 45 to 60 minutes | Dough should almost double in size |
| Readiness test | Finger indentation test | Slow spring back confirms readiness |
“The Second Rise enhances gluten structure and allows the bread to build volume, resulting in the signature soft crumb and fluffy texture of our Cinnamon Chip Bread.”
Tips for Success
- Warm spot: Place the loaf pan in a slightly warm, draft-free area such as on top of the oven or inside a microwave with the door closed.
- Avoid overhandling: Once in the pan, resist the temptation to punch down the dough again; this would deflate the air pockets formed during the first rise.
- Moisture retention: To keep the dough surface moist, mist the dough lightly with water if using plastic wrap.
By closely following these steps for the Second Rise, we prepare our bread dough to bake into the golden, soft, and wonderfully aromatic loaf reminiscent of the beloved Great Harvest recipe.
Baking the Bread
To achieve the perfect Great Harvest Cinnamon Chip Bread, precise control over baking temperature and timing is essential. This step delivers the golden crust and tender crumb that define this beloved recipe.
Oven Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the exact temperature before placing the loaf inside. We recommend using an oven thermometer to verify accuracy because even small temperature deviations can affect the bread’s texture.
Place the loaf pan on the center rack to allow even heat circulation around the bread. Bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes. Start checking at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the interior.
| Baking Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking Time | 50–60 minutes |
| Oven Rack Position | Center |
| Equipment | Oven thermometer recommended |
During baking, the bread’s aroma will begin to fill your kitchen with warm cinnamon and sweet hints from the cinnamon chips, signaling it’s nearing perfection.
Checking for Doneness
To confirm the bread is fully baked, perform the toothpick test by inserting a thin skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
Another reliable method is to tap the bottom of the loaf once it’s cooled slightly in the pan. A hollow sound indicates the interior is fully cooked and tender.
We also recommend using an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 205°F (96°C) for ideal doneness.
| Doneness Check Method | Indicator |
|---|---|
| Toothpick test | Comes out clean or with moist crumbs |
| Bottom tap test | Hollow sound |
| Internal temperature | Approximately 205°F (96°C) |
Once confirmed, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. This step prevents the crust from becoming soggy and maintains the bread’s signature tender yet slightly chewy crust.
With these baking tips, our Cinnamon Chip Bread will emerge golden, fragrant, and irresistibly delicious every time.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once our Cinnamon Chip Bread is out of the oven, the cooling process is just as crucial as baking to maintain its soft crumb and signature texture.
Cooling Steps
- Remove the bread from the oven carefully using oven mitts and place the loaf pan on a heat-resistant surface.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This lets the crumb set and prevents the bread from breaking apart when handled.
- After 10 minutes, gently invert the bread onto a wire cooling rack. This promotes airflow all around the loaf preventing a soggy bottom crust.
- Let the bread cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing. Cutting too soon will result in a gummy texture due to residual steam.
“Patience during cooling is key to savor the full depth of the cinnamon aroma and the tender, moist crumb we worked hard to create.”
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest Recipe, consider these tasty serving ideas:
| Serving Option | Description | Best Served With |
|---|---|---|
| Warm with Butter | Lightly toast slices and spread with softened butter. | Hot tea, coffee, or milk |
| Cream Cheese Spread | Smooth cream cheese balances cinnamon sweetness. | Fresh berries or fruit preserves |
| Honey Drizzle | A touch of honey adds floral sweetness. | Greek yogurt or ricotta |
| French Toast | Use thick slices to make cinnamon-infused French toast. | Maple syrup and powdered sugar |
| Breakfast Sandwich | Add egg and cheese between thick slices for a hearty meal | Crispy bacon or sausage |
Storage Tips
- Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.
- For longer storage, freeze the sliced bread in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost slices at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
Using these cooling and serving strategies ensures every bite of our Cinnamon Chip Bread delivers the warm cinnamon embrace and soft texture reminiscent of the Great Harvest bakery.
Storage Tips
To preserve the freshness and flavor of our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest recipe, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to enjoy soft, aromatic slices for days after baking.
Short-Term Storage (1 to 3 Days)
- Once completely cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the crumb soft.
- Store the wrapped loaf at room temperature in a bread box or airtight container.
- Avoid refrigeration during this period, as it causes the bread to stale faster by drying out the crumb.
Medium-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- For storage beyond three days, place the wrapped bread into a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator to slow mold growth while sacrificing some softness.
- To revive softness before serving, reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)
- For extended freshness, freeze the bread. Follow these steps:
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cool completely | Ensure bread is fully cooled | Prevents condensation in storage |
| 2. Slice (optional) | Slice before freezing for convenience | Take out only needed slices |
| 3. Wrap tightly | Use plastic wrap and aluminum foil | Double wrapping prevents freezer burn |
| 4. Bag and seal | Place wrapped bread in freezer bag | Remove excess air when sealing |
| 5. Label and date | Note baking date on packaging | Helps track freshness |
- Thaw frozen bread at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster to restore warmth and softness if desired.
Additional Tips for Best Results
- Always cool the bread completely on a wire rack before wrapping to avoid soggy crust.
- Avoid stacking unwrapped slices to prevent sticking.
- Use airtight containers or bread bags designed for bakery breads if you bake often to maintain optimal texture.
Conclusion
Baking the Cinnamon Chip Bread from Great Harvest is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort right to our kitchen. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe that fits perfectly into any baking routine.
Taking care with each stage—from mixing to rising and baking—ensures we get that soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor every time. Plus, proper cooling and storage help us enjoy this delicious bread long after it’s out of the oven.
Whether for breakfast, a snack, or sharing with loved ones, this bread is sure to become a favorite in our home. Let’s keep baking and savoring every sweet, cinnamon-filled slice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Great Harvest Cinnamon Chip Bread special?
Great Harvest Cinnamon Chip Bread is known for its soft, tender crumb combined with sweet cinnamon chips. Its warm cinnamon flavor and delightful aroma make it a comforting treat perfect for breakfast or snacks.
What are the main ingredients needed for this bread?
The bread uses all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon chips for its signature flavor and texture.
What equipment is essential for baking this bread?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, a 9×5 inch loaf pan, a cooling rack, and an oven thermometer for best results.
How important is measuring ingredients accurately?
Accurate measurements are crucial to achieve the soft texture and balanced flavor the bread is known for. It ensures consistent and delicious results every time you bake.
Can beginners bake Cinnamon Chip Bread successfully?
Yes, the recipe is simple enough for both novice and experienced bakers, with clear step-by-step instructions provided for all stages of the baking process.
How do I add cinnamon chips to the dough?
After the first rise, gently fold in 1 cup of cinnamon chips on a floured surface without overworking the dough to maintain its tender crumb.
What is the purpose of the second rise?
The second rise helps develop the bread’s soft texture and light crumb. The dough should nearly double in size before baking.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the bread?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness at 50 minutes using a toothpick or by tapping the bottom for a hollow sound.
How should the bread be cooled after baking?
Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for at least an hour to avoid sogginess.
What are the best ways to store Cinnamon Chip Bread?
Wrap cooled bread tightly for short-term storage at room temperature, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Always reheat gently to restore softness.