Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with the warm spice of cinnamon dancing in harmony with the tartness of fresh rhubarb. This recipe is not just a quick bread, but a comforting treat that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Whether it’s a snack with coffee, a dessert, or a delicious breakfast option, this bread is versatile and irresistible. Follow along as we guide you through every step to create the perfect loaf of Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread.
The History of Rhubarb in Baking
Rhubarb, often thought of as a fruit due to its culinary uses, is actually a vegetable. Its unique tart flavor has made it a popular ingredient in pies, tarts, and cakes since the 18th century. Paired with sweet elements, such as cinnamon or sugar, rhubarb transforms into a delightful component in baked goods. The combination of cinnamon and rhubarb is particularly cherished because the spice complements the tartness, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured. The cinnamon-sugar swirl adds warmth and a caramelized sweetness, while the rhubarb provides a tangy contrast. This bread is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the seasonal bounty of rhubarb in a comforting and easy-to-make recipe. Plus, the use of sour cream ensures a tender crumb, making every slice soft and satisfying.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread
Here is a list of everything you’ll need to make this delicious loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups rhubarb, diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
- All-purpose flour provides structure and holds the bread together.
- Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
- Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, balancing out the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar sweetens the bread and creates a perfect contrast with the tart rhubarb.
- Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture, creating a soft and tender crumb.
- Eggs provide structure and bind the ingredients together, giving the bread a rich texture.
- Vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the sweetness and aroma of the bread.
- Sour cream makes the bread moist and tender, while also adding a slight tang that complements the rhubarb.
- Rhubarb provides the signature tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Cinnamon-sugar mixture gives the bread a warm, spiced swirl that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick while baking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra ease when removing the loaf.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Make sure the ingredients are well combined, as this will ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. The creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, which will help the bread rise during baking.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness that will elevate the flavor of the bread.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of sour cream. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in the Rhubarb
Gently fold in the 1 1/2 cups of diced rhubarb using a spatula. Folding helps to distribute the rhubarb evenly throughout the batter without deflating it. The rhubarb will add bursts of tangy flavor throughout the loaf.
Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This cinnamon-sugar mixture will be used to create the beautiful swirl inside the bread.
Step 8: Assemble the Loaf
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Step 9: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar through the batter to create a marbled effect. Don’t overmix—just a few swirls will create a beautiful pattern.
Step 10: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden brown, and your kitchen will be filled with the warm aroma of cinnamon and rhubarb.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread. It’s perfect on its own or served with a smear of butter or cream cheese.
Storage and Freezing Tips
To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the loaf in aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is the ultimate combination of sweet and tart, with a moist crumb and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. The addition of sour cream ensures the bread stays soft, while the cinnamon swirl adds a delightful warmth that complements the rhubarb perfectly. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home.