This Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread is a delightful twist on classic quick bread, combining the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the warmth of cinnamon and a touch of sweetness. The result? A moist, flavorful loaf that’s as comforting as it is vibrant. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up your seasonal rhubarb or simply craving something sweet and spiced, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s bake up this cozy, spring-inspired treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Tangy Balance: The tartness of rhubarb pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the batter and the warmth of cinnamon.
- Moist & Flavorful: Packed with juicy rhubarb and a hint of spice, this bread stays tender and delicious for days.
- Perfect for Any Time of Day: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert!
- Spring-Inspired: A great way to celebrate rhubarb season and add a pop of color to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream for extra richness)
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 1/2-inch pieces)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp milk or lemon juice
- Optional: 1/4 tsp almond extract for added depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and melted butter. Stir until well blended.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and yogurt until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Add the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of sugar with the 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Bake the Bread
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil halfway through baking.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Optional Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or lemon juice), and almond extract (if using) until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast: Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
- As a Snack: Pair with a glass of cold milk or a dollop of whipped cream for an afternoon treat.
- For Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- At Gatherings: Bring to potlucks or brunches—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Rhubarb: Look for firm, bright red stalks for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to prevent a dense loaf.
- Adjust Sweetness: If your rhubarb is particularly tart, increase the sugar slightly in the batter or glaze.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread is a celebration of spring flavors, blending the tangy brightness of rhubarb with the comforting warmth of cinnamon. Its moist crumb, spiced swirl, and optional glaze make it a versatile treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
So grab your rhubarb, preheat your oven, and whip up this sweet-and-spiced loaf. One bite of this tender, flavorful bread, and you’ll feel like you’ve captured the essence of spring in every slice!