If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious bread that combines the tangy richness of plain yogurt with warm cinnamon, this yogurt cinnamon bread is an excellent choice. It’s easy to make, moist, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a quick dessert. The yogurt keeps the bread tender, while the cinnamon adds a cozy aroma and flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the plain yogurt, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract (if using) to the egg mixture. Mix until smooth and homogeneous.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Substitutions: You can substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt for a thicker texture, or use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier option.
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Preventing overbaking: Check the bread at the 50-minute mark to prevent it from drying out. Every oven varies, so use a toothpick test rather than relying solely on time.
- Enhancing flavor: Adding a handful of raisins, chopped nuts, or a swirl of honey before baking can add extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon yogurt bread is perfect on its own, toasted with a pat of butter, or topped with a smear of cream cheese or fruit preserves. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and makes a lovely accompaniment to breakfast or brunch. You can also serve slices as a snack or pack them into lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
Variations
- Banana Cinnamon Bread: Add 1 mashed ripe banana to the wet ingredients for a moist, banana-flavored twist.
- Chocolate Chip Yogurt Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
- Apple Cinnamon Bread: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped apples and sprinkle extra cinnamon on top before baking.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt and flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
Storage and Reheating
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best freshness. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 7 days. To reheat, slice the bread and warm in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, which can dry out the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, flavored yogurt can add extra sweetness or flavor, but keep in mind it may alter the overall taste and sugar content. Reduce the added sugar slightly if using sweetened yogurt.
Is this bread suitable for gluten-free diets?
This recipe is designed with regular all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container. It tastes best within the first 2 days but can be kept refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat slices before serving for optimal freshness.
What if my bread turns out dense or heavy?
This could be due to overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and results in a dense loaf. Mix just until ingredients are combined. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, and don’t open the oven door during baking.
Can I freeze the baked bread?
Yes, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Additionally, the loaf should be golden brown on top, and the edges should pull away slightly from the pan.
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This simple yet flavorful plain yogurt cinnamon bread is a versatile and satisfying baked good that can be customized easily to suit your preferences. Its moist crumb and aromatic spices make it a staple that you’ll want to bake again and again, whether as a breakfast treat or a comforting snack.
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