Sourdough Cinnamon Bread: Perfectly Sweet and Soft

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Cinnamon Bread

Baking sourdough cinnamon bread isn’t just about making something delicious—it’s about creating a loaf that’s soft, flavorful, and naturally leavened. Unlike traditional yeast-based cinnamon bread, this version develops a deep, tangy flavor thanks to fermented dough, while maintaining an irresistibly fluffy texture.

Here’s why this recipe is worth trying:

✔ Incredible Flavor: The combination of a mildly tangy sourdough base and a sweet cinnamon swirl makes for a perfectly balanced bite.

✔ Soft Yet Sturdy Texture: The slow fermentation process enhances dough elasticity, resulting in a bread that’s pillowy soft yet holds its structure beautifully.

✔ Naturally Leavened Goodness: No commercial yeast needed—just an active sourdough starter that gives this bread its unique rise and depth of flavor.

✔ Versatile & Customizable: Enjoy it freshly baked, toasted with butter, or transformed into French toast for a weekend treat. You can even add raisins, nuts, or a vanilla glaze for extra indulgence.

✔ Make-Ahead Friendly: Thanks to overnight fermentation, you can prepare the dough in advance, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

If you’re looking for a comforting, homemade cinnamon bread that’s both naturally leavened and irresistibly sweet, this recipe is for you! Let’s dive in and get baking

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Using high-quality ingredients ensures your sourdough cinnamon bread turns out soft, flavorful, and perfectly golden.

For the Dough:

• 350g (2 ¾ cups) bread flour – Provides the right amount of structure for a soft yet sturdy crumb.
• 100g (½ cup) active sourdough starter – A bubbly, well-fed starter is key for a good rise and deep flavor.
• 200g (¾ cup + 1 tbsp) whole milk – Adds moisture for a tender, fluffy texture.
• 50g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, softened – Enhances richness and creates a buttery soft crumb.
• 40g (3 tbsp) honey or sugar – Balances the sourdough tang with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg – Contributes to the bread’s soft structure and elasticity.
• 6g (1 tsp) salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and gluten development.

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 50g (¼ cup) brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness to the filling.
• 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon – The star ingredient for that warm, aromatic flavor.
• 20g (1 ½ tbsp) melted butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the dough and adds extra richness.

Optional Additions:

• ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts – For added texture and sweetness.
• Vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + vanilla + milk) – A finishing touch for those who love a sweeter, bakery-style loaf.

With these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients, you’re on your way to making homemade cinnamon bread that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and texture. Next, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to make the process even smoother! 

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand will make the process of baking sourdough cinnamon bread smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining and kneading your sourdough dough with ease.
• Digital kitchen scale – Precision is key for achieving the perfect dough consistency.
• Bench scraper – Helps with shaping and handling the soft, elastic dough.
• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the dough before adding the cinnamon swirl.
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch) – Provides structure for a beautifully shaped, evenly baked loaf.
• Dough whisk or stand mixer – Makes mixing easier, especially when incorporating butter and starter.
• Pastry brush – For spreading melted butter over the dough to help the cinnamon sugar filling stick.
• Sharp knife or kitchen shears – Useful for scoring or slicing the dough before baking.
• Wire rack – Allows the bread to cool properly, preventing a soggy bottom.

Optional but Helpful:

• Proofing basket (banneton) – Helps maintain the dough’s structure during the bulk fermentation stage.
• Instant-read thermometer – Ensures the bread is fully baked by checking the internal temperature (aim for 190–200°F (88–93°C)).
• Dutch oven or baking stone – While a loaf pan works best, you can also bake this bread in a Dutch oven for a more rustic crust.

With these tools ready, you’ll find the process of making this homemade cinnamon swirl sourdough bread much more effortless. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to bring it all together! 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the process of making sourdough cinnamon bread. Take your time and enjoy the experience—your kitchen is about to smell incredible!

Step 1: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, active sourdough starter, milk, honey (or sugar), and egg. Stir until a rough dough forms.
2. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes (this allows the flour to hydrate and makes kneading easier).
3. Add the salt and softened butter, then knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 8–10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest at room temperature (75–78°F) for 4–6 hours, folding it every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours.

Step 2: Overnight Bulk Fermentation

1. After the dough has risen by about 50%, transfer it to the refrigerator to ferment overnight (8–12 hours).
2. This slow fermentation deepens the flavor and enhances the bread’s soft texture.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

1. The next morning, lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle.
2. Brush the dough with melted butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top.
3. Starting from the short edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the seam by pinching it gently.

Step 4: Second Rise (Proofing)

1. Place the dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover with a towel and let it proof at room temperature for 3–4 hours, or until it looks puffy and slightly risen.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the top of the loaf with a little milk or melted butter for a golden, glossy crust.
3. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. If unsure, check with a thermometer—the internal temperature should be 190–200°F (88–93°C).
4. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy!

Once cooled, slice into your beautifully swirled sourdough cinnamon bread and enjoy it as is, toasted with butter, or even turned into French toast!

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to customize this recipe to your taste!

Pro Tips and Variations

Baking sourdough cinnamon bread is a rewarding experience, and with a few expert tips, you can achieve the perfect soft, flavorful loaf every time. Plus, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

Pro Tips for the Best Loaf

 Use an Active Sourdough Starter – A well-fed, bubbly starter ensures a good rise and enhances the bread’s texture and tangy flavor. If your starter is sluggish, feed it 4–6 hours before mixing the dough.

 Don’t Rush the Fermentation – The overnight cold fermentation develops depth of flavor and improves the dough’s elasticity, making it easier to roll and shape.

 Roll the Dough Evenly – For a uniform cinnamon swirl, roll the dough into a tight log, pressing gently to prevent gaps in the filling.

Prevent Overspreading of the Filling – Too much butter in the filling can cause the layers to separate. Brush a thin, even layer to keep the swirl intact.

 Let It Cool Before Slicing – Cutting into warm bread can make it dense and gummy. Allow it to cool completely for the best soft yet structured crumb.

Creative Variations to Try

 Raisin Cinnamon Sourdough Bread – Add ½ cup of plump raisins to the filling for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

 Nutty Crunch Version – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar for a delightful crunch.

 Extra Sweet with a Glaze – Drizzle a vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla extract) over the cooled loaf for a bakery-style finish.

 Chocolate Cinnamon Swirl – Swap out some brown sugar for cocoa powder to add a subtle chocolatey richness to your swirl.

 Cardamom Twist – Enhance the spice blend by adding ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom for a more aromatic, slightly citrusy warmth.

With these tips and variations, you can customize your homemade cinnamon sourdough bread to match your preferences and make every loaf uniquely delicious! Now, let’s explore some serving suggestions to enjoy your freshly baked bread to the fullest.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your sourdough cinnamon bread is beautifully baked, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy it. Whether you love it warm, toasted, or transformed into a decadent treat, this bread is as versatile as it is delicious!

Simple & Classic

 Freshly Sliced with Butter – Enjoy a warm slice with a pat of melting butter for a comforting, bakery-style experience.

Toasted with Honey or Jam – Toasting enhances the cinnamon swirl flavor, making it perfect with a drizzle of honey, fruit preserves, or nut butter.

Elevated Breakfast Ideas

 Cinnamon Swirl French Toast – Dip thick slices in an egg-milk mixture and pan-fry for an ultra-soft, custardy French toast. Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit.

 Sourdough Cinnamon Bread Pudding – Cube the bread, soak it in a vanilla custard mixture, and bake for a comforting dessert or brunch dish.

Whipped Cream & Berries – Add a touch of elegance by topping toasted slices with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Indulgent Dessert Twists

Chocolate Hazelnut Delight – Spread warm slices with Nutella or chocolate ganache for a dessert-worthy treat.

 Cinnamon Sugar Crisps – Slice thin, brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes for crunchy, sweet crisps.

 Perfect Coffee Pairing – A slice of cinnamon sourdough bread pairs beautifully with a latte, cappuccino, or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon snack.

From simple buttered slices to indulgent French toast, this bread is a delicious addition to any meal. However you serve it, one thing is certain—every bite is irresistibly soft, sweet, and filled with comforting cinnamon goodness!

Conclusion

Baking your own sourdough cinnamon bread is a truly rewarding experience. From the slow fermentation that enhances its depth of flavor to the irresistible cinnamon swirl, every step of the process brings you closer to a loaf that’s both comforting and delicious.

Whether you enjoy it warm with butter, toasted with a drizzle of honey, or transformed into a decadent French toast, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Plus, with simple variations like adding raisins, nuts, or a vanilla glaze, you can easily customize it to suit your taste.

So, if you’ve been looking for the perfect way to combine tangy sourdough with warm cinnamon sweetness, this recipe is your answer. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your baking success—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

Sourdough Cinnamon Bread: Perfectly Sweet and Soft

Liora

There’s something truly magical about sourdough cinnamon bread—the way its sweet and tangy flavor pairs with a soft, fluffy texture

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

including fermentation 7 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

• For the Dough:
• 350 g 2 ¾ cups bread flour – Provides the right amount of structure for a soft yet sturdy crumb.
• 100 g ½ cup active sourdough starter – A bubbly, well-fed starter is key for a good rise and deep flavor.
• 200 g ¾ cup + 1 tbsp whole milk – Adds moisture for a tender, fluffy texture.
• 50 g ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Enhances richness and creates a buttery soft crumb.
• 40 g 3 tbsp honey or sugar – Balances the sourdough tang with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg – Contributes to the bread’s soft structure and elasticity.
• 6 g 1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and gluten development.
• For the Cinnamon Swirl:
• 50 g ¼ cup brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness to the filling.
• 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon – The star ingredient for that warm aromatic flavor.
• 20 g 1 ½ tbsp melted butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the dough and adds extra richness.
• Optional Additions:
• ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts – For added texture and sweetness.
• Vanilla glaze powdered sugar + vanilla + milk – A finishing touch for those who love a sweeter, bakery-style loaf.

Instructions

 

• Prep Your Oven & Pan
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
• Mix the Dry Ingredients
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
• Oat flour
• Protein powder
• Baking powder & baking soda
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt
• This step ensures even distribution and prevents clumps in your batter.
• Combine the Wet Ingredients
• In a separate bowl, whisk together:
• Pumpkin puree (for moisture and flavor)
• Eggs (for structure)
• Greek yogurt (for a soft, fluffy texture)
• Melted coconut oil (for richness)
• Maple syrup or coconut sugar (for natural sweetness)
• Vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
• Mix until smooth and well combined.
• Bring It All Together
• Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
• Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
• If using add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
• Bake to Perfection
• Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
• If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes.
• Cool & Enjoy
• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
• Slice and enjoy as is, or spread with almond butter, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor!

Keyword Sourdough Cinnamon Bread

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most out of your sourdough cinnamon bread baking experience:

1. Can I use store-bought sourdough starter for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a homemade sourdough starter, store-bought active sourdough starter works just fine. Just make sure it’s well-fed and bubbly before you begin, as this will ensure your bread rises beautifully.

2. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While bread flour is ideal for this recipe due to its higher protein content, all-purpose flour can also be used. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less chewy, but it’ll still turn out delicious!

3. How can I store the bread after baking?

Once your sourdough cinnamon bread has cooled, store it in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Simply toast slices as needed for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

4. Can I make this recipe without the overnight fermentation?

While the overnight cold fermentation is what gives this bread its depth of flavor, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just allow the dough to rise for a few hours at room temperature. Keep in mind, the flavor may not be as developed, but it will still be delicious.

5. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

To check if your bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. You can also use a kitchen thermometer—the internal temperature should read 190-200°F (88-93°C).

6. Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?

Yes! Add raisins, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or even chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to fold them into the dough gently to avoid overworking it.

Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I hope these tips help make your sourdough cinnamon bread baking a success. Enjoy every warm, cinnamon-scented slice!