Cozy cinnamon swirl sourdough has become my absolute favorite weekend baking project, and I can’t wait for you to try it! There’s something magical about the aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes – that perfect blend of tangy sourdough, warm cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness. I remember the first time I pulled a loaf of this beautiful sourdough cinnamon bread from the oven; the crust was crackly, and the swirl was just begging to be sliced. It tasted like pure comfort. This recipe is simpler than you might think, and the result is a loaf that’s both rustic and incredibly special. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

This isn’t just any bread; it’s an experience! Get ready to fall in love with this delightful loaf for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: The unique tang of sourdough perfectly balances the sweet, warm cinnamon swirl.
Beautiful Presentation: The distinct swirl makes every slice a work of art.
Rewarding Bake: It’s a fantastic project that yields delicious results.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special snack.
Aromatic Kitchen: Your home will smell amazing while it bakes.
Truly Comforting: It’s the epitome of comfort food baking.
Surprisingly Achievable: You’ll be amazed at how easy this cinnamon swirl sourdough is to make.

Ingredients for Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

Making this homemade cinnamon swirl sourdough is a joy, and gathering your ingredients is the first delicious step! Here’s what you’ll need for two beautiful loaves:

300 g active sourdough starter – make sure it’s bubbly and ready to go!
900 g bread flour – the higher protein content gives us that lovely chewy texture.
560 g warm water – around 80-85°F, perfect for waking up the starter.
20 g fine sea salt – essential for flavor and dough structure.
⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened – for spreading on the dough, making it tender and rich.
½ cup dark brown sugar – this gives our swirl that deep, molasses sweetness.
3 tbsp ground cinnamon – the star of the show, don’t skimp!
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) – adds another layer of warmth and flavor.
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – for a little crunch in every bite.

Cozy cinnamon swirl sourdough: 1 amazing, comforting loaf - Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough - additional detail

How to Make Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Make sure your Dutch oven is in there to get super hot for at least 45 minutes. This intense heat is key for that amazing crust.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, bread flour, and warm water until there are no dry bits of flour left. This is called the autolyse, and it helps the dough develop structure. Cover it and let it rest for 30-45 minutes. After resting, add the fine sea salt and fold it into the dough until it’s smooth and well incorporated.
Step 3: Cover the bowl again and let the dough rise at room temperature (around 70-75°F) for 6-8 hours. During the first 3 hours of this rise, perform stretch and folds every 30-60 minutes. You’ll feel the dough getting stronger and more elastic with each fold.
Step 4: Gently turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it in half. Take one half and roll it into a rectangle about 10×15 inches.
Step 5: Spread half of the softened butter evenly over the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. In a small bowl, mix the dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Add half of the chopped nuts now, if you’re using them. This is where the magic starts for your sourdough baking with cinnamon.
Step 6: Tightly roll up the dough rectangle from the long end, like you would a jelly roll, pinching the final seam to seal it. Repeat steps 4-6 with the second half of the dough.
Step 7: Place each rolled loaf, seam-side up, into well-floured bannetons or bowls lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let them proof. You have two options: proof at room temperature for 2-4 hours, or for an even deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight for 8-16 hours.
Step 8: Once your dough is proofed and your Dutch oven is screaming hot, carefully flip one loaf onto a piece of parchment paper. Score the top of the loaf with a lame or sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand beautifully in the oven.
Step 9: Using the parchment paper as a sling, carefully lower the loaf into the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 20 minutes. The steam trapped inside the Dutch oven is crucial for a good rise and crust.
Step 10: After 20 minutes, remove the lid. The bread will have puffed up nicely. Continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches about 205-210°F. The aroma of cinnamon will be incredible at this stage, signaling perfect sourdough baking with cinnamon.
Step 11: Carefully remove the loaf from the Dutch oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely for at least 2-3 hours. Repeat steps 8-11 with the second loaf. Patience is key here – slicing too early can result in a gummy texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

I’ve learned a few tricks over time that really elevate this bread from good to absolutely unforgettable. Follow these tips for your best loaf yet:

Use a scale: For consistent results, weighing your ingredients, especially flour and water, is crucial for sourdough.
Don’t rush the fermentation: Longer, slower fermentation in the fridge (overnight option) develops a deeper flavor and a more tender crumb.
Handle dough gently: When shaping, be careful not to degas the dough too much, especially after the bulk fermentation.
Hot oven is key: Ensure your Dutch oven is thoroughly preheated. This initial blast of heat creates that signature sourdough crust.

What’s the secret to perfect cinnamon swirl sourdough bread?

The real secret to a truly amazing artisan cinnamon swirl sourdough lies in the combination of a long, cold proof and careful shaping. This develops complex flavors and a beautiful, open crumb.

Can I make cinnamon swirl sourdough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The overnight cold proofing method is perfect for meal prep. Shape your loaves, let them rest briefly, then refrigerate them in their bannetons. Bake them straight from the fridge the next morning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with spiced cinnamon swirl sourdough?

A common pitfall is over-handling the dough during shaping, which can lead to a dense loaf. Also, make sure your Dutch oven is screaming hot before baking to get that perfect crust. Finally, always let it cool completely!

Best Ways to Serve Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

This bread is a star on its own, but it truly shines with a few simple pairings. I love serving it warm, fresh from the oven, with a generous smear of good quality butter. The contrast between the slightly tart sourdough and the rich butter is divine. For a truly decadent treat, try toasting thick slices and topping them with a dollop of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey – perfect for a delightful sweet cinnamon swirl sourdough experience. It also makes an incredible base for French toast or even bread pudding, transforming leftovers into a whole new cozy meal.

Nutrition Facts for Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delicious bread. Remember, these are approximations!

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of a loaf)
Calories: 230
Fat: 6.5g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: N/A
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 220mg
Protein: 5g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you add nuts or use different types of butter and sugar.

How to Store and Reheat Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

Once your beautiful cozy cinnamon swirl sourdough has cooled completely (and believe me, resisting that urge is worth it!), proper storage will keep it delicious for days. For short-term storage, I like to wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight bread bag. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents the crust from becoming too hard. Stored this way, your bread should stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you find yourself with extra loaf of this delightful tart cinnamon sourdough, freezing is your best friend. Wrap individual slices or entire cooled loaves securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or a freezer bag, to prevent freezer burn. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! For a single slice, a few minutes in the toaster or under the broiler brings back that lovely crispness. If you’re reheating a larger portion or a whole loaf that’s been frozen, wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle warming helps revive the texture without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough

What makes this cinnamon swirl sourdough recipe so special?

The magic lies in the balance! We combine the signature tang of sourdough with a generous, sweet cinnamon swirl, creating a flavor profile that’s both complex and comforting. It’s a truly rewarding bake that’s surprisingly achievable for home bakers.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of sourdough starter for this cinnamon swirl bread?

While you *could* adapt this recipe to use active dry yeast, it wouldn’t be a true sourdough. The starter is what gives the bread its characteristic tang, unique texture, and long fermentation benefits. For this specific homemade cinnamon swirl sourdough, sticking with an active starter is key to achieving the intended result!

My cinnamon swirl isn’t very visible. How can I get a better swirl in my sourdough?

To get a more defined swirl in your cozy cinnamon swirl sourdough, ensure you spread the butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly and relatively close to the edges before rolling. Also, rolling the dough tightly from the long end is crucial. Don’t be afraid to press down slightly as you roll to compact the layers.

How do I store leftovers of this homemade cinnamon swirl sourdough?

Once completely cooled, wrap your leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing individual slices or the whole loaf is a great option.

Variations of Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic cozy cinnamon swirl sourdough, the possibilities for delicious variations are endless! This versatile recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of creative additions. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Apple Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough Bread: Add thinly sliced apples or a layer of cooked apple compote along with the cinnamon sugar for a delightful fruity twist. This turns your loaf into a decadent breakfast treat.
Chocolate Hazelnut Sourdough: Swap the cinnamon for cocoa powder mixed with sugar, and add a layer of Nutella or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread. A sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts takes it over the top!
Cranberry Orange Sourdough: Incorporate dried cranberries and a tablespoon of orange zest into the dough during the autolyse stage, then use a cinnamon-orange sugar mixture for the swirl. It’s bright, festive, and utterly delicious.
Vegan Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Easily make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based butter alternative and ensuring your sugar is vegan-certified. It bakes up just as beautifully and tastes just as amazing!