We’ve always been fans of cozy baked goods that fill the house with irresistible aromas, and our take on Cinnamon Chip Bread from Great Harvest doesn’t disappoint. This delightful loaf draws from the bakery’s beloved recipe, blending soft, fluffy bread with bursts of sweet cinnamon chips for a treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
What makes this bread special is its simple yet flavorful profile, evoking memories of fresh-baked goods straight from the oven. We’re excited to share how you can recreate this Great Harvest favorite in your own kitchen, turning everyday ingredients into something truly magical.
Ingredients
In our exploration of the Cinnamon Chip Bread recipe inspired by Great Harvest, we focus on the essential ingredients that create its irresistible soft texture and warm, cinnamon-kissed flavor. We’ve organized them below in the order they’re typically used, from dry bases to wet components and add-ins, with precise measurements and prep notes for flawless results.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light, airy dough.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: For a subtle sweetness that balances the cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast: Proofed in warm water for optimal rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Fine sea salt to enhance flavors without overpowering.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk: Heated to 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melted and cooled slightly for easy incorporation.
- 1 large egg: Beaten to add richness and structure to the bread.
Add-Ins and Flavorings
- 1 cup cinnamon chips: High-quality, store-bought or homemade for that signature burst of cinnamon in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Freshly ground for intensified aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for a deeper, comforting flavor profile.
This lineup uses everyday pantry staples, making it simple to whip up a loaf that evokes the cozy charm of Great Harvest originals. Note that for best results, we recommend measuring ingredients accurately—use a kitchen scale for dry goods to avoid inconsistencies, as shown in the table below for common variations.
| Ingredient Type | Standard Measurement | Potential Variation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flour | 2 ½ cups | Up to 3 cups for denser bread | Adjust based on humidity levels |
| Yeast | 1 tablespoon | 2 ¼ teaspoons instant | Faster rise with instant |
| Milk | 1 cup | Almond milk alternative | For dairy-free options |
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our key ingredients for our irresistible Cinnamon Chip Bread inspired by Great Harvest, let’s ensure we have the essential tools to mix, shape, and bake this soft, aromatic loaf to perfection.
To achieve the ideal texture and that comforting cinnamon scent, we recommend the following equipment. We’ve organized them into categories for ease:
- Basic Mixing Tools:
- A large mixing bowl (at least 4 quarts) to combine dry ingredients like flour and yeast without spills.
- A sturdy whisk or wooden spoon for blending wet ingredients such as warm milk and melted butter smoothly.
- Measuring Essentials:
- A set of measuring cups (both dry and liquid) for accurate portions of ingredients like sugar and vanilla extract.
- A set of measuring spoons to precisely measure smaller items, ensuring our bread’s flavor profile remains spot-on.
- Baking and Proofing Gear:
- A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan (non-stick preferred) to shape the dough and create that classic Great Harvest-style rise.
- A kitchen scale for weighing flour accurately, as it helps avoid dense results—use it to measure 500 grams for consistent outcomes.
- Optional but Helpful Tools:
- A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for kneading the dough efficiently, saving us time while developing the perfect crumb.
- An instant-read thermometer to check dough temperature (aim for 195°F internally when baking), guaranteeing a golden, fully baked loaf.
By using these tools, we can effortlessly recreate the cozy, homemade charm of Cinnamon Chip Bread that evokes fresh-baked warmth in every slice. Always opt for quality equipment to enhance our baking experience and achieve professional results at home.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients and tools, we guide you through crafting our irresistible Cinnamon Chip Bread with straightforward steps for a fluffy, aromatic loaf that captures the essence of Great Harvest’s charm.
Prep
Before we begin, prepare your workspace and ingredients for seamless baking. Start by activating 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast in warm milk (around 110°F) for 5-10 minutes until it foams, ensuring our dough rises perfectly. Measure out all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, a large egg, cinnamon chips, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract as listed, and grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients first: whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until evenly blended. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients—add the activated yeast mixture, melted unsalted butter (1/2 cup), 1 large beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir vigorously with a sturdy wooden spoon or stand mixer on low speed for 3-5 minutes until a sticky dough forms, releasing the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon that promises a delightful Cinnamon Chip Bread.
Let Rise
Once the dough is mixed, transfer it to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size—the dough should feel soft and airy, filling the kitchen with the comforting scent of budding Cinnamon Chip Bread.
Shape and Add Cinnamon Chips
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead in 1 cup of cinnamon chips by folding and pressing for 1-2 minutes until they’re evenly distributed without overworking the dough. Shape the dough into a loaf form, tucking the edges under for a neat appearance, and place it into the prepared loaf pan—the chips will create pockets of sweet, melty surprise in every slice of our Cinnamon Chip Bread.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center. Bake the shaped loaf for 30-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F, filling your home with the irresistible, spicy-sweet fragrance of freshly baked Cinnamon Chip Bread. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through.
Cool
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set the structure, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 1 hour—the bread’s texture will firm up, making it easier to slice into warm, tender pieces perfect for enjoying our Cinnamon Chip Bread.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Cinnamon Chip Bread Great Harvest recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare elements in advance to streamline baking day while preserving that fresh-baked aroma and texture. Below, we outline practical steps for making dough, shaping loaves, or even baking ahead, ensuring Cinnamon Chip Bread remains fluffy and flavorful.
Preparing Dough in Advance
To save time, we recommend mixing and proofing the dough ahead. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Mix the Dough the Night Before: After combining the dry ingredients (like flour, sugar, and yeast) and wet ingredients (warm milk, butter, and egg) as detailed in our step-by-step instructions, knead until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This slow, cold proof enhances the flavor, developing a deeper cinnamon profile.
- Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. This allows it to rise fully before shaping, ensuring the bread achieves its signature soft crumb.
Freezing Unbaked Dough
For longer storage, freezing the dough is a game-changer. We can prepare multiple batches and bake fresh loaves as needed.
- Shape and Freeze: After the first rise, shape the dough into loaves as per our instructions. Wrap each unbaked loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Thaw and Bake: Transfer the frozen dough to the fridge overnight to thaw. Once thawed, let it proof at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. Bake as directed, adding 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if needed for a golden crust.
Baking and Storing Ahead
If we want to bake the bread in advance, focus on proper cooling and storage to maintain freshness.
- Cool Completely: After baking, let the loaf cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. This step prevents sogginess and locks in the irresistible cinnamon chip pockets.
- Store for Short-Term: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked bread for up to 3 months—slice it first for easy thawing.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality cinnamon chips, as they hold up well during freezing without losing their sweet, spicy burst.
- Always label frozen items with dates to track storage time—refer to the table below for recommended durations based on method.
| Make-Ahead Method | Recommended Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Dough | Up to 24 hours | Enhances flavor and convenience |
| Frozen Unbaked Dough | Up to 1 month | Preserves texture for fresh bakes |
| Frozen Baked Bread | Up to 3 months | Allows quick reheating as needed |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cinnamon Chip Bread recipe inspired by Great Harvest
as it’s a simple way to bring warmth and flavor into your kitchen.
Baking it at home lets us capture that cozy aroma and taste
while making it your own with easy tweaks.
Give it a try and enjoy the fresh-baked satisfaction—it’s sure to become a favorite in your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinnamon Chip Bread?
Cinnamon Chip Bread is a soft, flavorful loaf inspired by Great Harvest, featuring sweet cinnamon chips in a simple bread base. It’s perfect for home bakers, offering a comforting aroma and taste with everyday ingredients like flour, sugar, and cinnamon. This recipe recreates that bakery charm easily at home.
What ingredients are needed for Cinnamon Chip Bread?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, warm milk, unsalted butter, a large egg, cinnamon chips, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Measure accurately for the best texture—dry ingredients like flour and sugar mix with wet ones like milk and butter, plus add-ins for flavor.
What equipment is required to make Cinnamon Chip Bread?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, whisk or wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, a loaf pan, and a kitchen scale. For easier prep, use a stand mixer or instant-read thermometer. These basics ensure smooth mixing, proofing, and baking for professional results at home.
How do I make Cinnamon Chip Bread step by step?
Start by activating yeast in warm milk, then mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar) with wet ones (butter, egg). Knead the dough, incorporate cinnamon chips, let it rise, shape into a loaf, and bake until golden. Cool completely for the best texture—total time is about 2-3 hours including rising.
Can I prepare Cinnamon Chip Bread in advance?
Yes, mix and proof the dough the night before for enhanced flavor, or freeze shaped loaves for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake fresh. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, ensuring you enjoy fresh bread without daily prep.
How should I store homemade Cinnamon Chip Bread?
Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze slices or the whole loaf for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
What tips ensure the best Cinnamon Chip Bread results?
Use accurate measurements and room-temperature ingredients for even mixing. Let dough rise in a warm spot, and don’t overbake to keep it soft. Experiment with add-ins like nuts for variations, and always cool fully before slicing to prevent sogginess.