1st Step
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center. And In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2nd Step
Pour the wet ingredients into the well of the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or a spatula until a soft dough forms.
3rd Step
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4th Step
Grease a large bowl with cooking spray or oil. Place the dough into the greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
5th Step
While the dough is rising, whip up the filling by stirring together softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
6th Step
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles, and transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle shape.
7th Step
Roll out the dough and spread the cinnamon filling all over it, leaving a thin border around the edges. Roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer sides, and seal the seams with your fingers.
8th Step
Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has doubled in size.
9th Step
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). And once the dough has risen again, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10th Step
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. And, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
11th Step
Now prepare the glaze; in a bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
12th Step
Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag to create decorative patterns if desired. And slice and serve the soft cinnamon bread on its own, or with a pat of butter, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.
