Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful and aromatic treat that brings together the warmth of spices, the richness of nuts, and the sweetness of dough. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert. Imagine slicing into a soft, fluffy loaf, revealing a beautiful swirl of cinnamon and crushed walnuts, with a glossy golden crust that beckons you to take a bite. This homemade bread is not only delicious but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • Flour: 650 g (about 5 cups)
  • Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
  • Dry Yeast: 1.5 tsp (6 g)
  • Salt: 1 tsp (4 g)
  • Lukewarm Milk: 300 ml
  • Vegetable Oil: 2 Tbsp (30 ml)
  • Egg White: 1, beaten

For the Filling:

  • Crushed Walnuts: 200 g (about 2 cups)
  • Sugar: 80 g (about 1/3 cup)
  • Cinnamon: to taste (usually about 1 tsp)
  • Butter: 5 Tbsp, melted

For the Glaze:

  • Egg Yolk: 1
  • Milk: 1 Tbsp

Steps How to Make It:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk (about 37-40°C or 98-104°F) with the dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, the remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the vegetable oil and the beaten egg white.
  4. Knead the Dough: Mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little extra flour as needed.
  5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

  1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle approximately 1 cm thick (about 0.4 inches).
  2. Add the Filling: Evenly sprinkle the walnut mixture over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Roll the Dough: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal the dough.
  4. Shape the Loaf: Gently twist the dough log and tuck the ends under to fit into a greased loaf pan. You can also place the dough into a round baking pan for a more rustic look.

Step 4: Second Rise

  1. Let it Rise Again: Cover the loaf with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

  1. Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. This will give the bread a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) during the second rise.
  2. Glaze the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, brush the top with the egg wash.
  3. Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  4. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Calcium: 30 mg
  • Iron: 1 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. You can also leave out the nuts altogether if preferred.

2. How should I store the Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature, shape it, and allow it to rise again before baking.

4. What can I serve with this bread?

This bread is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread. It pairs well with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Tips for Making the Best Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread:

  • Kneading: Ensure you knead the dough well to develop gluten for a soft and fluffy texture. If the dough is sticky, add flour a little at a time while kneading.
  • Rising: Find a warm spot for your dough to rise. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in the oven with just the light on, which provides a gentle warmth.
  • Adding Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the filling for additional flavor.
  • Slicing: For neat slices, use a serrated knife. It helps maintain the shape of the bread without squishing it.

Storage Tips:

  • Room Temperature: Keep the bread in a cool, dry place. Use a bread box or a cloth bag to help retain moisture without trapping too much humidity.
  • Freezing: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This makes it easy to take out individual slices when desired.
  • Reheating: To reheat, you can toast slices in a toaster or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Conclusion:

Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a labor of love that results in a moist, flavorful loaf that your family and friends will adore. With its warm cinnamon aroma and crunchy walnut filling, this bread makes for a perfect addition to any breakfast table or snack time. Follow this recipe to create a lovely homemade bread that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart. Enjoy every slice fresh from the oven or toasted with your favorite spread. Happy baking!