Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon swirling through your kitchen as a perfectly spiced loaf bakes in the oven. This Cinnamon Swirl Loaf with Caramel Glaze is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the moist texture of buttermilk-infused cake, and the richness of a buttery caramel glaze. Perfect for breakfast, a tea-time snack, or dessert, this loaf is guaranteed to impress your family and guests. Follow this easy recipe to create a show-stopping loaf that tastes as good as it looks!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar (for the cinnamon swirl)
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar for the swirl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter layer. Pour the remaining batter on top and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter for a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the loaf cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and let the glaze cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle it generously over the cooled loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the loaf and serve it warm or at room temperature. This loaf pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a tall glass of milk. It also makes a wonderful gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with a ribbon.
This Cinnamon Swirl Loaf with Caramel Glaze is the perfect blend of simplicity and decadence. The moist, tender crumb combined with the sweet cinnamon swirl and the buttery caramel glaze will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday treat, or just because, this loaf is a timeless crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Enjoy baking and sharing the joy this loaf brings to your table!