We’ve always been captivated by Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread with its warm spicy aroma and generous cinnamon chunks that make every bite a delight. Originating from the beloved Kneaders Bakery this treat has become a staple for cozy mornings and sweet indulgences offering a perfect blend of soft bread and bold flavors.
In our kitchen we’ve simplified the recipe so you can recreate this bakery favorite at home. Join us as we guide you through the steps to bake a loaf that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
To recreate our beloved Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread at home, we start by assembling these key ingredients in the order they are used during preparation. This ensures a smooth baking process while capturing the warm, aromatic essence that makes this loaf so irresistible.
Dough Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 4 cups, sifted for even texture to form the base of our dough.
- Active dry yeast: 2¼ teaspoons, proofed in warm water to activate rising for that perfect lift.
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup, dissolved into the mixture for a subtle sweetness that balances the spices.
- Whole milk: 1 cup, warmed to promote yeast activity and create a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, melted to add rich moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Large eggs: 2, beaten to incorporate air and bind the ingredients together.
Cinnamon Filling and Topping
- Ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons, the star spice that infuses our bread with its signature chunky warmth and depth.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed for a caramelized contrast that enhances the cinnamon’s aroma.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: 1 cup, toasted for added crunch and texture in the filling.
- Additional unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened to spread evenly and create those irresistible layers.
This selection draws from the comforting traditions of Kneaders Bakery, allowing us to simplify the recipe while maintaining authentic flavor profiles.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread to life, we need the right tools to mix, shape, and bake this comforting loaf. With these essentials on hand, we’ll ensure a smooth process from dough preparation to that irresistible golden crust.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment, organized by the stages of preparation:
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this for combining our flour, yeast, and other dough ingredients, allowing for easy stirring and rising without spills.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook or Hand Mixer: Essential for kneading the dough efficiently; it saves time and effort, ensuring the bread achieves that perfect, elastic texture we love in Kneaders-style loaves.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for our recipe’s success, so we rely on these to measure out ingredients like milk, sugar, and cinnamon precisely.
- Rolling Pin: We employ this to roll out the dough evenly, making it simple to spread the chunky cinnamon filling for those signature layers.
- 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: This is our go-to for shaping the bread as it bakes, helping create the classic tall, hearty form that defines Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread.
- Whisk: Great for blending dry ingredients or mixing the cinnamon-sugar topping, ensuring everything incorporates smoothly.
- Plastic Wrap or Clean Kitchen Towel: We use this to cover the dough during rising, maintaining a warm, draft-free environment for optimal proofing.
- Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: Placed under the loaf pan, these prevent messes and promote even baking, leading to a beautifully browned exterior.
- Oven Thermometer: To guarantee our oven is at the precise temperature, we recommend this for consistent results every time we bake.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, we let the bread cool here to prevent sogginess, preserving the fresh, aromatic appeal of our homemade version.
By gathering these tools, we’re set to transition seamlessly from mixing our ingredients to enjoying the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked bread.
Instructions
We guide you through creating Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread step by step, using the ingredients and equipment we’ve outlined to achieve that signature warm aroma and soft texture. Let’s transform simple pantry staples into a cozy, irresistible loaf.
Prepare the Dough
First, we activate the yeast to ensure a fluffy rise. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm whole milk and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar; stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it foams, signaling it’s ready.
Next, we build the dough base. Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and the remaining 3/4 cup of warm whole milk to the bowl. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook or a hand mixer on low speed, knead the mixture for 5-7 minutes until it forms a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the sides. If needed, sprinkle in extra flour 1 tablespoon at a time to prevent sticking. This step creates the foundation of our bread, promising that tender crumb everyone loves in Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread.
Add the Cinnamon Filling
Once the dough is ready, we infuse it with that iconic spicy-sweet flavor. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle, aiming for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Spread a mixture of 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle 1 cup of brown sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Gently press the filling into the dough to ensure it adheres. Now, roll the dough tightly from one long edge into a log, and pinch the seam closed. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, allowing the swirls of cinnamon to peek through for that visually tempting, aromatic appeal.
Let the Dough Rise
To achieve the perfect light and airy texture, we let the dough rest and develop. Cover the prepared loaf pan loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough doubles in size. You’ll notice the irresistible scent of cinnamon beginning to emerge as it rises, a sign that our Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread is on its way to bakery-level perfection.
Bake the Bread
We bring out the golden-brown magic. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution. Bake the risen dough in the loaf pan for 30-35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for uniform browning. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The bread will fill your kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma that evokes the comforting essence of Kneaders Bakery.
Cool and Serve
For the best texture and flavor, we cool the bread properly. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack for another 20-30 minutes to prevent sogginess. Once cooled, slice into thick pieces to reveal the chunky cinnamon swirls, and serve warm with a pat of butter for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the homemade charm of Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We often prepare components in advance to capture that warm, spicy aroma without the rush. This approach lets you activate the dough ahead of time and enjoy fresh-baked bread whenever you need it.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
To make the dough in advance, follow these steps after the initial mixing and kneading phase from our step-by-step instructions:
- Activate and knead the dough as directed: Once the dough is smooth and elastic, shape it into a ball.
- First rise in the refrigerator: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This slow fermentation enhances the flavor, giving it a deeper, more authentic Kneaders-style taste.
- Thaw if needed: If you’ve refrigerated the dough overnight, let it sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours before proceeding to the rolling and filling stage.
Handling the Cinnamon Filling and Topping
The cinnamon filling is straightforward to prepare ahead, ensuring your bread retains its chunky, irresistible texture.
- Mix the filling in advance: Combine the ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and chopped nuts in a bowl as outlined in the ingredients section. Store this mixture in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Portion for ease: We recommend dividing the filling into single-use portions to avoid waste and maintain freshness.
Storage Tips and Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread components. Below, we break down the methods with recommended durations for optimal results:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours for dough; up to 1 week for filling | Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap to prevent drying, and store the filling in a sealed container. Always check for off odors before use. |
| Freezing | Up to 1 month for dough; up to 3 months for shaped loaves | Freeze the dough in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. For shaped loaves, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread stays fresh and full of flavor, ready to bake whenever inspiration strikes. Always proof the dough fully before baking to achieve that perfect, golden crust.
Conclusion
We’ve loved guiding you through this Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread recipe, bringing that cozy bakery vibe right to your kitchen.
It’s rewarding to bake something so aromatic and comforting from scratch.
Now it’s your turn to savor the warm, spicy slices and make it a staple in your home.
Trust us, once you’ve tried it, you’ll bake it again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread?
Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread is a cozy, aromatic treat from Kneaders Bakery, known for its warm cinnamon flavor and chunky texture. It’s a beloved homemade loaf perfect for mornings, featuring a soft dough with cinnamon filling and nuts for added crunch.
What are the key ingredients for the recipe?
The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, whole milk, unsalted butter, and eggs for the dough. For the cinnamon filling and topping, you’ll need ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and chopped nuts. These simple items capture the authentic Kneaders flavor while keeping the recipe easy.
What equipment is needed to bake this bread?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, stand or hand mixer for kneading, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, and a 9×5-inch loaf pan. You’ll also need a whisk, plastic wrap for rising, a baking sheet with parchment paper, an oven thermometer, and a cooling rack for best results.
How do I make Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread?
Start by activating the yeast and mixing the dough ingredients. Roll out the dough, add the cinnamon filling, and let it rise. Bake in a preheated oven until golden, then cool on a rack. The process is straightforward and takes about 2-3 hours total, including rising time.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can activate and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor and fit busy schedules. Prepare the cinnamon filling in advance too, and store it in the fridge. This make-ahead strategy keeps everything fresh and makes baking more convenient.
How should I store the baked 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 wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months. Always reheat before serving to enjoy that warm, cinnamon aroma.
Why is Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread ideal for cozy mornings?
Its inviting aroma and spicy-sweet flavor make it a comforting favorite, drawing from Kneaders Bakery traditions. Easy to bake at home, it brings warmth and homemade charm to your breakfast, perfect for relaxing mornings with family.