Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Add the egg, then pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until everything is combined, and a soft dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

#### Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size.
3. Brush the dough with the melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

#### Step 3: Shape the Bread
1. Carefully roll the dough up from the longer side to form a log, pinching the edges to seal.
2. Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches) and place the rolled dough seam-side down into the pan. Gently press the dough into the pan to fit.
3. Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up and fills the pan.

#### Step 4: Bake the Bread
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.

#### Step 5: Cool and Serve
1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with a few extra nuts if desired.

### Tips for Success

– **Kneading:** Don’t skip the kneading step! It helps develop the gluten in the dough, making it soft and airy. If you’re short on time, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
– **Make It Ahead:** You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight for a more developed flavor. Just take it out in the morning, let it come to room temperature, and continue with the cinnamon swirl process.
– **Add Ins:** Feel free to experiment with different nuts, like pecans or almonds, or even mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a little extra sweetness and texture.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

### Why You’ll Love Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a comforting, flavor-packed treat that combines the best of a cinnamon roll and a loaf of bread. The nutty crunch, sweet cinnamon swirl, and soft, buttery bread make every bite a joy. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served for breakfast, dessert, or even a special holiday treat.

This recipe fills your kitchen with the aroma of cinnamon and baking bread, creating the perfect atmosphere for family gatherings or cozy mornings. The crunchy nuts bring an extra layer of texture to the bread, making it a little more special than your average cinnamon loaf.

### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious, homemade bread that’s perfect for any occasion, **Nutty Cinnamon Swirl Bread** is the answer. With its delightful combination of cinnamon, sugar, and nuts, this bread is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a cozy, flavorful bite. Easy to make and full of irresistible flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to bake again and again. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven!