Save This Brown Butter Cinnamon Roll Bread transforms the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into a convenient quick bread form. The nutty brown butter elevates this loaf to something truly special, creating a tender crumb with ribbons of cinnamon sugar swirled throughout every slice.
I first created this bread when I wanted cinnamon rolls but lacked the patience for a yeasted dough. Now it's become our Sunday morning tradition, with my family gathering in the kitchen as the aroma of brown butter and cinnamon fills our home.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: provides the perfect structure for this tender quick bread
- Baking powder and baking soda: work together to create the ideal rise
- Brown butter: adds an incredible nutty caramel note that elevates the entire loaf
- Whole milk: contributes richness and moisture to the tender crumb
- Ground cinnamon: is the star flavor use freshly ground if possible for maximum impact
- Light brown sugar: creates that classic cinnamon roll sweetness and moisture
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the other flavors look for pure rather than imitation
Instructions
- Brown the Butter:
- Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and continue cooking for about 5 minutes. Watch carefully as the butter foams then begins developing golden brown specks and a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately when it reaches a rich amber color with a toasty scent. Transfer to a bowl to prevent further cooking and allow to cool slightly before using.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This aerates the mixture and ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the batter for consistent rise.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, room temperature eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and your cooled brown butter in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well incorporated, with no streaks of egg remaining.
- Create the Batter:
- Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold together with a spatula using gentle movements. Stop stirring as soon as the flour disappears to prevent overdeveloping the gluten, which would result in a tough bread rather than a tender loaf.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture:
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth and fully combined. This creates the signature swirl that gives each slice its beautiful pattern and that classic cinnamon roll flavor throughout the bread.
- Layer and Swirl:
- Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Spoon half of your cinnamon mixture in dollops across the surface, then use a knife to create gentle swirls throughout. Top with remaining batter and repeat the dolloping and swirling process with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place in your preheated oven and bake for 48 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The bread will rise beautifully and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Glaze and Finish:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth to create a pourable glaze. Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for that classic cinnamon roll finish.
Save The brown butter is truly what makes this recipe special. I discovered its magic by accident when I once left butter on the stove a bit too long and noticed the incredible nutty aroma. Now I brown butter for everything from cookies to this bread, and it transforms ordinary baked goods into something extraordinary.
Storage Tips
This bread maintains its moisture remarkably well when stored properly. Wrap completely cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. To serve from frozen, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in a microwave for about 20 seconds.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this bread reaches new heights when served warm with a smear of salted butter that melts into all the cinnamon swirls. For brunch, pair slices with fresh fruit and hot coffee. Transform it into a dessert by toasting slices and topping with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. I often serve this as part of our holiday breakfast buffet alongside savory egg dishes for the perfect sweet counterpoint.
Ingredient Substitutions
If whole milk isnt available buttermilk creates a wonderful tangy flavor. Gluten free bakers can substitute a cup for cup flour blend though the texture will be slightly different. For a dairy free version use plant based butter and milk though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Seasonal Adaptations
Fall variation add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and substitute 14 cup of pumpkin puree for some of the milk. Winter holiday version incorporate orange zest and dried cranberries into the batter. Spring twist fold 12 cup fresh blueberries into the batter for a fruity variation.
Save The combination of brown butter and cinnamon sugar creates an unforgettable flavor. Enjoy every moist and tender slice.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the perfect brown butter?
Cook butter over medium heat, swirling until it turns golden and smells nutty—about 5 minutes. Cool before using.
- → Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a subtle tang and extra tenderness to the crumb. Substitute using an equal amount.
- → What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon filling?
Layer dollops of cinnamon mix between the batter, then gently swirl with a knife for ribboned layers.
- → How should I store the bread?
Once cooled, wrap tightly in plastic or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- → Can nuts be added to the batter?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and depth.
- → Is this bread freezer friendly?
Yes, slice and wrap the loaf well before freezing. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy as desired.