Description
Holiday Loaf Magic is my go-to easy recipe when I want a cozy sweet loaf that feels festive without a lot of work. This soft vanilla loaf with cinnamon glaze is perfect for breakfast ideas, holiday brunch, dessert, or a healthy-ish snack with coffee, and it always brings warm bakery flavor to the table.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
3/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan. Line with parchment paper if desired.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk, and mix just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool the loaf in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
9. Whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk until smooth.
10. Spoon the glaze over the mostly cooled loaf, let it set, then slice and serve.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter once the flour goes in, or the loaf can turn heavy instead of soft and tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: holiday loaf, vanilla loaf cake, cinnamon glaze loaf, easy recipe, breakfast ideas, dessert ideas, sweet bread, holiday baking