Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, 3/4 cup of the sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup sugar with the cinnamon.
- Layering: Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading evenly, and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Swirl: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift it out using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the milk and egg are at room temperature for a smoother batter and even bake.
- Swirling Tip: Don’t swirl too deeply, as this can blend the layers instead of creating a distinct cinnamon sugar swirl.
Storing Your Sweet Bread
- To Store: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To Freeze: Wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
This Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Bread is irresistibly soft with a perfect touch of cinnamon warmth, making it an easy and delicious homemade treat to share or enjoy yourself!