Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful quick bread that combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the warmth of cinnamon sugar. This recipe is a great way to incorporate seasonal rhubarb into a baked treat that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. The addition of cinnamon swirl throughout the loaf provides a comforting, sweet contrast to the tangy rhubarb, making it a must-try for anyone looking to bake with this unique vegetable.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for the swirl)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In one bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the rhubarb.
6. Transfer half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar topping.
7. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. Swirl the cinnamon mixture with a knife for a marbled effect.
9. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 180mg

The Magic of Rhubarb in Baking

Rhubarb is a vegetable that is often used as a fruit due to its tart, tangy flavor. While it’s most commonly used in desserts like pies, crisps, and jams, it’s increasingly being incorporated into breads, muffins, and cakes. The combination of its sharp flavor with sweet ingredients like sugar or cinnamon creates a balanced, exciting taste. Rhubarb’s flavor profile is a perfect complement to quick breads, which are typically on the sweeter side. When used in baking, rhubarb’s natural moisture helps keep the bread soft, while its tartness cuts through the sweetness, preventing the bread from being overly sugary.

What sets Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread apart from other quick breads is the addition of cinnamon sugar swirls. The swirls are a simple yet effective way to introduce another layer of flavor, making each bite a bit different from the last. The cinnamon complements the rhubarb beautifully, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. As the bread bakes, the cinnamon creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen, making it an ideal recipe for anyone who enjoys freshly baked goods.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is more than just a tasty ingredient; it’s also a healthy one. Though often overlooked, rhubarb is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. It’s a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from harmful free radicals. These antioxidants are important for preventing chronic diseases and slowing down the aging process. Rhubarb is also packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and helps with collagen production, which is vital for maintaining healthy skin and joints.

In addition to antioxidants and vitamin C, rhubarb is a good source of fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, as it aids in regular bowel movements and helps keep the digestive system running smoothly. The high fiber content in rhubarb makes this bread a slightly more nutritious option than typical sweet breads, providing a little extra boost to your diet.

Moreover, rhubarb is low in calories, making it a good choice for those who are looking for a healthier dessert option. While the bread may still contain sugar and butter, the addition of rhubarb helps balance out the sweetness, creating a treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty.

Why Cinnamon and Rhubarb Make the Perfect Pairing

The combination of cinnamon and rhubarb is a classic flavor pairing that has been used in many desserts over the years. The warm, spicy notes of cinnamon are the perfect contrast to the bright, slightly sour taste of rhubarb. The richness of the cinnamon swirls throughout the bread, providing a comforting sweetness that is perfectly balanced by the tangy rhubarb. This pairing works so well because it engages all the taste buds—sweet, sour, and spicy—in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.

Additionally, cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate blood sugar. While sugar is still an ingredient in this recipe, the addition of cinnamon can help mitigate its impact on blood sugar levels. In a way, the pairing of cinnamon with rhubarb isn’t just delicious—it’s also beneficial to your health.

Making Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread a Family Favorite

This bread is an excellent way to bring people together around a shared love of home-baked goods. Its inviting aroma and comforting texture make it perfect for family gatherings, casual brunches, or a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea. Baking this bread can become a cherished family tradition, especially during the spring when rhubarb is in season.

One of the great things about Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is how easy it is to make. Unlike other desserts that require intricate steps or specialized ingredients, this bread is straightforward and simple, making it a great choice for beginner bakers. Kids can also get involved in the baking process, helping to add the ingredients or stir the batter. The result is a delicious, homemade loaf that’s sure to impress family members and friends alike.

How to Enjoy Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It’s perfect on its own, but it can also be dressed up with a variety of toppings. For a sweet treat, serve the bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of cream cheese icing. You can also toast a slice and spread a bit of butter on top for a rich, decadent breakfast.

If you want to take it up a notch, try pairing the bread with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of yogurt. The tanginess of the fruit will complement the bread’s flavor profile, while the creaminess of the yogurt will provide a lovely contrast to the texture of the bread. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or as a mid-afternoon snack, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

For those who prefer a more indulgent option, serving the bread as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can transform it into a show-stopping treat. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread

One of the best things about Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is that it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or for keeping on hand for a few days. To store the bread, simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep the bread fresh for a longer period of time, you can freeze it. To do this, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw the bread at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes. The bread will taste just as fresh as the day it was baked, and you can enjoy it at your leisure. Freezing the bread also makes it a convenient option for future snacking or for gifting to friends and family.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Rhubarb Bread is a perfect recipe for those looking to make the most of seasonal rhubarb. With its combination of tart rhubarb, sweet cinnamon swirls, and soft, moist bread, it’s a treat that will delight your taste buds. The health benefits of rhubarb, combined with the comforting flavor of cinnamon, make this bread not just delicious, but also a nutritious option for those who love to bake.