Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread

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When I first baked this Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread, the warm scent of cinnamon sugar wrapping around every corner of the kitchen felt like a comforting hug. It’s the kind of bread that blurs the line between dessert and breakfast—moist, tender, with that nostalgic cinnamon-sugar swirl that brings back memories of classic snickerdoodle cookies. Every bite feels familiar yet somehow new, with a golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb that you just can’t get enough of.

I love making this loaf during the cooler months, but honestly, it’s too good to reserve for just one season. Whether served warm with a cup of coffee or enjoyed as a sweet afternoon treat, this bread never lasts long once it’s out of the oven. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers but delicious enough to impress anyone you serve it to.

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Why You’ll Love This Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread

• It’s a cinnamon-sugar dream come true with a soft, buttery texture.
• Easy to prepare with pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Perfect as a snack, dessert, or indulgent breakfast.
• Freezes well for make-ahead convenience.
• Brings the nostalgic flavor of snickerdoodle cookies into a moist, sliceable loaf.

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What Kind of Cinnamon Should I Use?

Ground cinnamon is key to achieving that signature snickerdoodle flavor, but not all cinnamon is created equal. I recommend using Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon for a bolder, more aromatic profile. If you prefer a softer spice, regular ground cinnamon works just fine—but don’t skip it. It’s what gives the bread its warmth and cozy charm.

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Options for Substitutions

• Butter: You can swap for margarine or vegan butter if needed, though real butter gives the richest flavor.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great alternative—it still adds moisture and tang.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar can replace white sugar for a deeper caramel note, though the texture may change slightly.
• Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose blends work well for a GF version.
• Topping: Try adding chopped pecans or a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top for extra crunch.

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Ingredients for this Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread

• All-purpose flour – This forms the base of the bread and gives it structure.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the loaf and helps create that perfect golden crust.
• Butter – Unsalted butter adds a rich, creamy flavor and keeps the bread moist.
• Eggs – They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s tender texture.
• Sour cream – Makes the bread ultra moist and adds a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Baking powder – Leavens the bread, giving it a light, fluffy rise.
• Salt – A small amount enhances all the other flavors.
• Cinnamon – The heart of this recipe, creating the signature snickerdoodle swirl.
• Brown sugar – Mixed with cinnamon for a richer swirl and caramel-like taste.

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Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. This step ensures your bread won’t stick and bakes evenly.

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Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Set this aside—you’ll layer it into the batter for that classic snickerdoodle ribbon.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a lighter crumb and helps dissolve the sugar.

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Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This adds richness and builds flavor depth.

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Step 5: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Mix in 1/2 cup sour cream until smooth. This ingredient is essential for creating a moist, tender loaf.

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Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, or your bread may turn dense.

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Step 7: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Swirl

Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar swirl on top. Add the remaining batter and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter without overmixing.

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Step 8: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil halfway through.

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Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

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How Long to Prepare the Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread

The full process from mixing to cooling takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but most of that time is hands-off while it bakes or cools.

• Prep Time: About 15 minutes to gather and mix all ingredients.
• Bake Time: 50–60 minutes depending on your oven. Begin checking at the 50-minute mark with a toothpick.
• Cooling Time: At least 20 minutes—10 in the pan, 10 on a wire rack—to ensure clean slices and perfect texture.

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Tips for Perfect Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread

• Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing and even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined to keep the crumb tender.
• Always swirl the cinnamon-sugar gently to maintain those beautiful streaks.
• Check early if your oven runs hot—tent with foil if it browns too fast.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for best results.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold butter: It won’t cream properly with sugar, making your bread dense.
• Skipping the swirl layer: This is what gives the bread its signature flavor and texture.
• Overbaking: Leads to a dry, crumbly loaf. Keep an eye on it after 50 minutes.
• Not greasing the pan well: Can cause the bread to stick or break while removing.
• Cutting too early: It’s tempting, but slicing before it cools can ruin the structure.

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What to Serve With Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread?

1. Hot Coffee or Latte

The perfect pairing for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Warm a slice and top with a scoop for an easy dessert.

3. Fresh Berries

Raspberries or strawberries balance the sweet spice with bright flavor.

4. Whipped Cream

Adds a soft, creamy contrast to the cinnamon sugar crust.

5. Chai Tea or Spiced Cider

These cozy drinks enhance the cinnamon notes and make it feel extra indulgent.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel underneath and over the loaf to absorb moisture.

Refrigerator: You can refrigerate the bread for up to 1 week, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It may firm up slightly but still tastes great warmed.

Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and place in a zip-top bag to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for 10 minutes at 300°F.

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Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 10 slices)

• Calories: 285
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon sugar?

Use a butter knife to gently swirl in a figure-eight motion through the batter. Don’t overdo it or it will blend too much.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for best texture.

Is this recipe overly sweet?

Not at all. The sweetness is balanced by the tangy sour cream and warm spices. You can reduce sugar slightly if desired.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even mini chocolate chips work well in the batter or on top.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done. If it’s wet, give it more time.

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Conclusion

This Buttery Snickerdoodle Bread is pure cinnamon-sugar comfort in loaf form. With its irresistibly soft center, rich flavor, and sweet swirl, it’s the perfect cozy treat for any time of day. Whether you’re sharing it with family over coffee or sneaking a slice for dessert, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Make a double batch—you won’t regret it.

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