Imagine a warm, freshly baked bread that fills your home with the most irresistible cinnamon aroma, making everyone's mouth water the moment they walk through the door. This Cinnamon Streusel Bread is not just a recipe; it's a magical experience that transforms ordinary baking into an extraordinary culinary adventure. With its perfectly moist texture, swirled cinnamon streusel, and a delightful crunch from optional nuts, this quick bread is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the 1/2 cup of sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the streusel topping by combining 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (if using), and an additional 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the remaining streusel mixture.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the batter and streusel together to create a marbled effect, being careful not to mix too thoroughly.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Streusel Bread warm or at room temperature, either plain or with a spread of butter!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender and light.
- Swirling Technique: When creating the marbled effect, use a gentle hand to avoid completely blending the streusel into the batter.
- Oven Placement: Bake in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.
- Foil Trick: If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then on a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms.
- Storage Tip: Wrap cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
