No-Knead Cinnamon Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon bread wafting through your home. This no-knead cinnamon bread recipe is perfect for those who love homemade bread but don’t have the time or patience for traditional kneading. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can enjoy a warm, sweet, and fragrant loaf that's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

For the cinnamon filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add water: Pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky, but that’s okay.
3. Let it rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours. The long fermentation time develops the flavor and texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. Combine sugar and cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Melt the butter: Melt the butter and set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

1. Prepare the work surface: Lightly flour a clean work surface and turn the risen dough out onto it. Gently pat it into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Add the filling: Brush the melted butter over the surface of the dough. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough.
3. Roll the dough: Starting from one of the short ends, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
4. Prepare the baking pan: Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Place the rolled dough into the pan, seam side down.
5. Final rise: Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the oven: About 30 minutes before the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips and Variations

• Add raisins or nuts: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a handful of raisins or chopped nuts over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling the dough.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf for extra sweetness.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months.

It's So Delicious!

This no-knead cinnamon bread is a delightful treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or as a sweet snack, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!