Easy Swirled Cinnamon Sugar Croissant Loaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this loaf because it delivers all the buttery, flaky goodness of croissants without the complicated folding and rolling of traditional recipes. The cinnamon-sugar swirl adds warmth and sweetness, while the tender layers of dough make every bite irresistible. Brushed with egg for a golden finish, this loaf looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements and instructions are included in the recipe card below.)

Dough

• 1 3/4 cups warm whole milk
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 4 1/2 – 5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature

Filling

• 2 sticks (1 cup) cold salted butter, sliced into thin pieces
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Finishing

• 1 egg, beaten, for brushing

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add milk mixture and room-temperature butter. Knead until a smooth dough forms, about 8–10 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×18 inches.
4. Evenly distribute thin slices of cold butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Mix sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle evenly over the butter.
6. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice the log in half lengthwise and twist the two halves together, keeping the swirls visible.
7. Place the twisted loaf into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Brush the loaf with beaten egg and bake 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
• Swap honey for maple syrup in the dough for extra sweetness.
• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore flakiness.

FAQs

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise and continue with rolling and filling the next day.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but adjust the salt in the dough slightly to taste.

Can I freeze the loaf?

Yes, freeze unbaked or baked loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking or serving.

Can I make mini loaves or rolls?

Absolutely. Divide the dough into smaller portions and shape individually for personal-sized treats.

Can I use almond milk or another milk alternative?

Yes, but warm it slightly to activate the yeast properly.

Conclusion

Easy Swirled Cinnamon Sugar Croissant Loaf is a perfect combination of buttery, flaky layers and warm cinnamon sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this loaf delivers bakery-quality flavor with minimal fuss, making it a favorite for both family gatherings and cozy mornings at home.

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