Description

This Easy and Fast Cinnamon Twist Loaf is a delightful, soft bread with a cinnamon sugar filling that’s twisted into a beautiful loaf. It’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, made with simple ingredients and baked to a golden perfection. The loaf is finished with a luscious glaze or frosting, adding creamy sweetness that complements the warm cinnamon flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 1/2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon dry active yeast
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Glaze and Frosting Options

1 cup powdered sugar
4 tablespoons room temperature butter
3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

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Instructions

Proof the Yeast: Combine warm water, dry active yeast, and granulated sugar in a mixer bowl. Let the mixture proof for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough: Add salt and all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and cover it, allowing it to rise for 10 minutes.
Roll the Dough: Roll the risen dough into a 10 by 12-inch rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling (brown sugar and cinnamon) over it.
Form the Roll: Roll the dough lengthwise tightly, similar to making cinnamon rolls, to create a log shape.
Shape the Twist: Place the roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cut the roll lengthwise down the center, keeping one end attached. Twist the two dough ropes around each other and tuck the ends underneath to form the loaf.
Final Rise and Preheat Oven: Let the twisted dough rise for 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Loaf: Bake the loaf for 23 to 25 minutes or until it turns lightly golden on the top, indicating it is cooked through.
Cool and Glaze: Allow the loaf to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Drizzle with your preferred glaze or frosting—options include combinations of powdered sugar, butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and heavy cream or milk for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
You can choose between a simple powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese frosting, or a vanilla butter glaze according to your preference.
Store leftovers wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Allow the loaf to cool sufficiently before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.