Cinnamon Sugar Loaf Cake

This Cinnamon Sugar Loaf Cake is a delightful, buttery quick bread with a soft, moist crumb and a golden-brown cinnamon-sugar crust that offers the perfect amount of crunch. Sweet, warmly spiced, and simple to prepare, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon coffee breaks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaf cake combines the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon toast with the softness of pound cake. The cinnamon sugar topping forms a caramelized crust as it bakes, giving each slice a satisfying texture contrast. It requires no mixer and uses basic pantry ingredients, making it an easy yet impressive addition to your baking lineup. It’s ideal for holidays, weekend baking, or gifting.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Eggs
• Milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Brown sugar (optional, for extra depth in the topping)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cinnamon sugar topping by mixing granulated sugar (and optionally brown sugar) with cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with a portion of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
8. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and crackled.
10. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10 slices
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a Swirl: Layer and swirl cinnamon sugar inside the batter for a marbled effect.
• Glazed Option: Drizzle a vanilla glaze over the top after baking for a sweeter finish.
• Add-ins: Fold in chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or diced apples for added texture and flavor.
• Make it Mini: Bake in mini loaf pans for individual servings—perfect for gifting.
• Use Buttermilk: For an extra tender crumb, substitute milk with buttermilk.

storage/reheating

Store the loaf at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 7 days.
To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf or slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly.

FAQs

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute oil for butter, but the texture will be slightly different—less rich and more moist.

Why is my loaf sinking in the middle?

This may be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it should work well.

Is this loaf cake very sweet?

It has a sweet flavor with the cinnamon sugar crust, but you can reduce the sugar slightly in the batter to taste.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes, chopped apples or pears work wonderfully. Gently fold them in before baking.

Can I use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk?

Yes, dairy-free alternatives can be used with similar results.

What kind of cinnamon is best?

Use ground Ceylon cinnamon for a mellow flavor or Cassia cinnamon for a bold, spicy kick.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and divide between two loaf pans.

How do I get the crunchy topping?

Ensure the cinnamon sugar topping is generously applied before baking. Do not cover it with foil while baking.

Can I use a mixer?

A mixer can be used, but take care not to overmix once the flour is added.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Loaf Cake is a simple, comforting treat with timeless appeal. Its soft crumb, fragrant cinnamon notes, and caramelized topping make it a standout among quick breads. Whether served as a sweet breakfast, midday snack, or dessert, this loaf brings warmth and joy to every bite. A must-have in your recipe box, especially during the holiday season.

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