Cinnamon roll bread is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining their beloved swirl and flavors with the convenience of a quick bread. This healthy version uses whole grains, less sugar, and wholesome ingredients while still delivering the warm, spiced comfort you crave. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, it’s a treat you can feel good about enjoying and sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or light olive oil)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar), for the cinnamon swirl
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, for the swirl
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil, for the swirl
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for optional glaze)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (for optional glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for optional glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and nutmeg if using.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- In a small bowl, combine the coconut sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil to form the swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then use a butter knife to gently swirl it into the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture and swirl again. If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top.
- Bake for 38-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Ovens vary, so check at 38 minutes and continue as needed.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the optional Greek yogurt glaze: Mix the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread just before serving.
Tips
- Flour substitutions: If you don’t have oat flour, simply pulse rolled oats in a blender until finely ground. All-purpose flour can be used in place of white whole wheat, but you’ll lose some fiber.
- Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt for the glaze or skip the glaze entirely. The bread itself is already dairy-free if you use plant milk.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until the flour disappears to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can make it dense or tough.
- Check doneness early: All ovens are different. Start checking the bread at 38 minutes; overbaking can dry it out.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices warm with a smear of nut butter for extra protein and healthy fats.
- Pair with a bowl of fruit and Greek yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
- Enjoy as a snack with a cup of herbal tea or coffee in the afternoon.
- For a brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh berries.
Variations
- Vegan cinnamon roll bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water, let sit 5 minutes). Use plant milk and coconut yogurt for the glaze.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute a quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the wheat flour, and use certified gluten-free oats for oat flour.
- Fruit add-ins: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped apples or pears for extra moisture and flavor.
- Chocolate swirl: Add 2 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips to the swirl mixture for a decadent twist.
- Nut-free: Omit nuts and use sunflower seed butter in the glaze if desired.
Storage and Reheating
Allow the cinnamon roll bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices (wrapped well) for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave slices for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. If using the yogurt glaze, add it just before serving or after reheating, as it can become watery if reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, this bread is perfect for making ahead! Bake the loaf, let it cool, and store as directed. For the freshest texture, add the glaze just before serving. If freezing, slice first for easy portions. - How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs and no wet batter. The top should be golden and feel firm. If in doubt, check the internal temperature—quick breads are done at around 200°F (93°C). - Can I reduce the sugar even more?
Yes, you can reduce the coconut sugar in the swirl or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener. The bread itself is only mildly sweet, but keep in mind that less sugar will affect the classic cinnamon roll flavor. - What can I use instead of applesauce?
Mashed ripe banana or plain Greek yogurt can replace applesauce in equal amounts. Both options add moisture, though banana will impart a mild flavor. - Why is my bread dense or gummy?
This usually happens if the batter is overmixed or the bread is underbaked. Mix until just combined, and always check doneness before removing from the oven. Letting the bread cool fully before slicing also helps set the crumb. - Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This cinnamon roll bread is lower in sugar and made with whole grains, making it a wholesome choice for children. If allergies are a concern, use nut-free options and skip the nuts.