Cinnamon Swirl Buns
Cinnamon Swirl Buns are a beloved classic in the world of sweet bread recipes, offering that perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough and a warm, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. These delightful treats have been a staple in bakeries and home kitchens for generations, bringing comfort and joy with every bite. Whether served as a special breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert, they never fail to impress with their aromatic spices and satisfying texture.
In the realm of Bread & Baking, mastering cinnamon buns represents a rewarding achievement for any home baker. The process of creating these swirls from scratch might seem intimidating, but with our carefully tested recipe, you’ll discover it’s surprisingly approachable. The magic happens when simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary through the alchemy of yeast, butter, and cinnamon.
This particular recipe for Cinnamon Swirl Buns strikes the perfect balance between traditional methods and modern convenience. We’ve optimized the technique to ensure consistent results whether you’re a beginner or experienced baker. The result is a batch of buns with that ideal pull-apart texture, generously coated in sweet glaze, and filled with just the right amount of cinnamon goodness.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Buns
- 🍽️ Perfect Texture: Soft, pillowy dough with a gooey cinnamon center and crisp edges
- ⏱️ Beginner-Friendly: Clear instructions with visual cues ensure success even for first-time bakers
- 💰 Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples for a fraction of bakery prices
- 👨👩👧👦 Family Favorite: Kids love helping with the rolling and swirling process
- ✨ Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or holiday gatherings
Cinnamon Swirl Buns
🛒 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
👨🍳 Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
- Knead dough: Add remaining flour and salt. Knead on floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Prepare filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in small bowl. Roll out risen dough on floured surface into 16×21-inch rectangle.
- Add filling: Spread softened butter over dough, leaving ½-inch border. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over butter.
- Roll and cut: Starting from long side, tightly roll dough into log. Cut into 12 equal slices using sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second rise: Place slices in greased 9×13 baking pan. Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
- Make glaze: While buns cool slightly, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk for drizzling consistency.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle glaze over warm buns. Serve immediately or store as directed below.
💡 CHEF’S SECRET: For perfect swirls that don’t unravel, chill the rolled log in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before slicing. This firms up the butter and makes cleaner cuts. Also, use dental floss instead of a knife for cutting – simply slide it under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull through for perfectly shaped buns every time.
📊 Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbs | 65 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 35 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
🎨 Variations
Transform these classic Cinnamon Swirl Buns with these creative twists from the world of sweet bread recipes. For a decadent treat, add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the filling before rolling. Apple cinnamon lovers can sprinkle 1 cup of finely diced apples over the butter layer. For a citrus twist, add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the dough and use orange juice instead of milk in the glaze. Those preferring less sweetness can reduce the sugar in the filling by ¼ cup and add 1 teaspoon of cardamom for a Scandinavian flair.
📦 Storage
Cinnamon Swirl Buns are best enjoyed fresh but store well for several days. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual buns tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature if frozen, then warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-8 minutes or microwave individual buns for 15-20 seconds. Avoid refrigerating as it dries out the dough. The glaze can be stored separately and added just before serving for optimal texture.
❓ FAQ
Can I make Cinnamon Swirl Buns ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare through step 5 (after cutting), then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and complete the second rise (about 1-1.5 hours) before baking. You can also freeze the shaped buns before the second rise for up to a month – thaw overnight in refrigerator before proceeding.
What pairs well with this?
From the Bread & Baking category, these buns pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or black tea. For breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. As dessert, they complement vanilla ice cream or a fruit compote. For a brunch spread, include savory items like quiche or breakfast casserole to balance the sweetness.
How do I know when it’s done?
Look for golden brown tops and edges that pull slightly away from the pan. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) when tested with an instant-read thermometer. Another test: gently press the center – it should spring back when fully baked. If the tops brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Swirl Buns represent everything wonderful about homemade baking – the comforting aroma, the satisfying process, and the delicious results. They’re more than just a recipe; they’re an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these buns deliver that perfect combination of nostalgia and fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Once you master this basic recipe, you’ll find endless ways to customize it to your taste. The world of sweet bread recipes offers so much creative potential, from seasonal variations to dietary adaptations. Remember that baking is both science and art – follow the measurements carefully but don’t be afraid to add your personal touch.
💬 Comment below! Share your baking experiences, variations you’ve tried, or questions about the recipe. More Bread & Baking inspiration awaits on our Pinterest boards!
