Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough, combining the tangy depth of sourdough with the warm, sweet flavors of cinnamon and sugar. This homemade bread boasts a soft, fluffy texture and a beautifully swirled filling that makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying sourdough for the first time, this recipe offers a fun and rewarding baking experience. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen as this delicious bread rises and bakes to golden perfection!

Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

Total Time: Approximately 8-10 hours (includes fermentation time)

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups (360g) bread flour

• 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)

• 1 cup (240ml) water (room temperature)

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

For the Topping (optional)

• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (like turbinado sugar)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Dough scraper

• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• 9x5 inch loaf pan (or a baking dish for free-form baking)

• Rolling pin - Small bowl (for the cinnamon sugar mix)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. In another bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with the water until well combined. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

2. Autolyse: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the flour to hydrate and will improve the dough’s texture.

3. Knead the Dough: After the autolyse, knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use the stretch and fold method, allowing the dough to rest between folds.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours or until it has doubled in size. The exact timing will depend on your starter's activity and the room temperature.

5. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

6. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently turn it out onto a floured surface. - Pat the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. - Brush the melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the surface.

7. Roll the Dough: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log, sealing the seam by pinching it closed. Tuck the ends under and place the log seam-side down.

8. Second Rise: Transfer the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for free-form baking. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 1-2 hours, until puffed.

9. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

10. Bake the Bread: If desired, sprinkle the top of the loaf with coarse sugar before baking. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

11. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread! Perfect for breakfast or a delicious snack!