Cinnamon Loaf

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A moist and flavorful cinnamon loaf featuring a tender crumb and swirls of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, its warm cinnamon aroma and rich sweetness make it a comforting treat for family gatherings or cozy mornings.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Cream shortening, brown sugar, and sugar until fluffy.
  2. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
  3. Sift together flour, salt, soda, and baking powder.
  4. Add alternately with buttermilk to the creamed mixture.
  5. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  6. Pour half the batter into a prepared loaf pan.
  7. Sprinkle with 2/3 of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  8. Add remaining batter on top.
  9. Sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
  10. Swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
  11. Bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes. This Cinnamon Loaf can also be made in mini loaf pans for quicker baking and delightful gifts.

Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Loaf is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Serve it with a spread of butter or cream cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside Cranberry Quick Cookies for a delightful treat platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Cinnamon Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Loaf contains roughly 412 calories, with 4g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).

412 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 89.1g 32% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 60.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1143.8mg 50% DV
Potassium 185.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 1.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4mcg
Vitamin C 5.5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 203.3mg 16% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser loaf. Consider using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture while still gaining the health benefits of whole grains.

How do I know when the loaf is done baking?

The Cinnamon Loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Baking times can vary, so start checking around the 40-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

Can I freeze the Cinnamon Loaf?

Absolutely! To freeze, allow the loaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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