Cinnamon Streusel Bread (The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need)

Imagine the aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar filling your kitchen. This isn’t just any bread; it’s the ultimate Cinnamon Streusel Bread, a masterpiece of soft, moist crumb with a decadent cinnamon swirl, all crowned with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping. This recipe is designed for the enthusiastic home cook, guaranteeing a perfect, bakery-quality loaf every single time. It’s the perfect companion to your morning coffee or a delightful afternoon treat.

A close-up overhead shot of the crunchy streusel topping on the cinnamon bread before it has been sliced, showing the texture of the baked sugar and butter.
It's all about that buttery, crunchy streusel topping!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Streusel Bread Recipe

We’ve tested and perfected this recipe to ensure it’s not just good, but unforgettable. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Unbelievably Moist Crumb: We use specific ingredients that guarantee a tender, moist bread that stays fresh for days.
  • Extra-Thick Streusel: Forget sparse toppings. This recipe features a generous, crunchy layer of buttery cinnamon streusel on top.
  • Perfect Cinnamon Swirl: Our technique ensures a beautiful, distinct swirl of cinnamon sugar in every single slice.
  • Simple & Straightforward: No complicated steps. Just clear, concise instructions for a no-fail baking experience. If you enjoy this, you might also love our comforting Butter Swim Biscuits.

Understanding the Key Components


The magic of this bread lies in its three distinct, delicious layers. Each one is simple to prepare but comes together to create something truly special.

For the Bread Dough

This is the foundation. We’re aiming for a tender, enriched dough that provides the perfect soft texture to contrast the crunchy topping. It’s a simple quick bread, meaning no yeast or proofing time is required!

For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

This is where the ribbon of warmth comes from. A simple mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon creates that classic, gooey swirl that makes every bite a delight.

For the Perfect Streusel Topping

The crown jewel! A buttery, crumbly mixture that bakes into a crunchy, irresistible topping. This is what truly elevates the bread from good to great. For another recipe with a fantastic crunchy topping, check out this praline crunch recipe.

A full loaf of freshly baked cinnamon swirl bread, golden brown and covered in a thick streusel topping, resting on a cooling rack.
Fresh from the oven! The aroma of this homemade cinnamon bread is simply irresistible.

Essential Equipment

You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this incredible homemade cinnamon bread. Here are the basics:

  • 9×5 Inch Loaf Pan: The standard size for most quick breads.
  • Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large one for the batter and a smaller one for the streusel.
  • Whisk and Spatula: For mixing the batter and spreading it in the pan.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking!

How to Make Cinnamon Streusel Bread Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to create the best Cinnamon Streusel Bread you’ve ever had. We’ll break it down into easy-to-manage stages.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bread out later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 3: Prepare the Filling and Streusel

For the filling, simply mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. For the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaf

Spread half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the top. Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the filling layer and spread it gently to the edges. Finally, sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. If you’re a fan of breakfast bakes, our Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins are another must-try.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before using the parchment paper overhang to lift it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Baker’s Tips for Success

Want to ensure your Cinnamon Streusel Bread is absolutely flawless? Follow these expert tips.

  • Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this can compact the flour and lead to dry bread.
  • Use Cold Butter for Streusel: For the best crunchy, crumbly texture, make sure your butter for the streusel is cold, straight from the fridge.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, dense bread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
  • Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary. Start checking your bread at the 45-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Storing Your Homemade Bread

This bread is so delicious, you might not have leftovers! But if you do, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The Perfect Cinnamon Streusel Bread Recipe

A full loaf of freshly baked cinnamon swirl bread, golden brown and covered in a thick streusel topping, resting on a cooling rack.
FL Recipes

Cinnamon Streusel Bread (The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need)

The ultimate Cinnamon Streusel Bread recipe! This guide delivers a perfectly moist quick bread with a rich cinnamon swirl and a thick, crunchy streusel topping. An easy, no-fail recipe for the best homemade cinnamon bread.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Bread
  • 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 cup Milk Whole or 2%
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter melted
  • 1 Large Egg room temperature
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
For the Cinnamon Filling
  • 1/3 cup Packed Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup Packed Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp Cold Unsalted Butter cut into cubes

Equipment

  • 1 9x5 inch Loaf Pan
  • 2 Mixing Bowls
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. In a small bowl, prepare the filling by mixing 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon.
  5. In another small bowl, prepare the streusel. Combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Cut in the 4 tbsp of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  6. Spread half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and spread evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping all over the top.
  7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalProtein: 4gFat: 12gFiber: 2g

Notes

For an extra touch, you can drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top once the bread has cooled.
Ensure the butter for the streusel is very cold to get the best crumbly texture.
Keyword cinnamon bread,quick bread,streusel bread

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We are so excited for you to try this amazing Cinnamon Streusel Bread recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe. If you make it, don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your masterpiece on Pinterest! We love seeing your creations.

A perfect slice of homemade Cinnamon Streusel Bread on a plate, showing the beautiful cinnamon swirl and thick, crumbly streusel topping. The background is a cozy kitchen setting.
The ultimate Cinnamon Streusel Bread - soft, moist, and topped with the crunchiest streusel!

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