20 Delicious Sweet Bread Recipes for Every Occasion

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Sweet breads are a staple for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy morning at home. With their soft, fluffy texture and sweet aroma, they’re sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious sweet bread recipes that are perfect for every occasion.

From classic cinnamon swirls and banana nut breads to more unique flavor combinations like pumpkin chocolate chip and strawberry cream cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a simple breakfast treat or a show-stopping dessert, these sweet breads are sure to please. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in the sweetness!

Cinnamon Swirl Sweet Bread

Start your day off right with this delicious sweet bread, filled with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar. Add warm milk and melted butter; mix until smooth.
3. Beat in egg and cinnamon.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over dough.
5. Roll up tightly; place seam-side down in prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Banana Nut Sweet Bread

This sweet bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of chopped nuts, perfect for a snack or breakfast treat. With minimal effort and only 10 ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a freshly baked loaf in no time.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
4. Pour in softened butter and beaten egg; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Sweet Bread

This sweet bread combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, chocolate, and spices to create a delightful treat perfect for any time of year. With its moist texture and subtle spice notes, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Blueberry Sweet Bread

This sweet bread combines the tanginess of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, creating a delightful breakfast or snack option. Perfect for a sunny morning, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and blueberries; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Apple Cinnamon Sweet Bread

Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful sweet bread infused with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples. This recipe is perfect for a family breakfast or brunch, and it’s also a great option for a snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, egg, diced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Chocolate Hazelnut Sweet Bread

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and flavorful bread, packed with the perfect combination of chocolate chips, hazelnuts, and a hint of orange zest.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add milk, melted butter, eggs, and orange zest. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Maple Glazed Sweet Bread

Start your day with a sweet and sticky treat! This Maple Glazed Sweet Bread is a simple yet impressive breakfast or brunch option that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and maple syrup. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before glazing with additional maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Coconut Pineapple Sweet Bread

Brighten up your morning with this deliciously moist Coconut Pineapple Sweet Bread, packed with the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of coconut.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, pineapple juice, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Raspberry Almond Sweet Bread

Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the flavors of fresh raspberries, crunchy almonds, and warm bread. This Raspberry Almond Sweet Bread recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, yogurt, egg, and whisk until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped raspberries and sliced almonds.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Strawberry Cream Cheese Sweet Bread

This sweet bread combines the freshness of strawberries with the tanginess of cream cheese, perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Moist and flavorful, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup strawberry jam
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in strawberry jam, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool before slicing and dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Peanut Butter Swirl Sweet Bread

This sweet bread recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the warmth of brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a delicious breakfast or snack option. With its soft, fluffy texture and gooey swirls of peanut butter goodness, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with peanut butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
6. Roll up the dough, cut into 1-inch thick slices, and place in loaf pan.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Carrot Cake Sweet Bread

This sweet bread is a twist on traditional carrot cake, with the warm spices and sweetness of carrots, but in a soft and fluffy bread form. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, carrots, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Zucchini Chocolate Sweet Bread

This moist and flavorful sweet bread combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the richness of chocolate, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, zucchini, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Mango Coconut Sweet Bread

This moist and flavorful sweet bread combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for a warm-weather treat or a special occasion dessert. With just a few simple steps, you can create this delicious loaf in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, coconut, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mango puree, coconut milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Orange Cranberry Sweet Bread

Brighten up your morning with this sweet and tangy orange cranberry bread, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering. This moist and flavorful loaf is infused with the warmth of orange zest and the sweetness of cranberries.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add orange juice, zest, cranberries, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Vanilla Bean Sweet Bread with Berries

This sweet bread recipe combines the warmth of vanilla bean-infused dough with the sweetness of fresh berries, creating a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla bean.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and top with fresh berries.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Double Chocolate Sweet Bread

Moist and decadent, this Double Chocolate Sweet Bread is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. With the rich flavors of dark and milk chocolate, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon melted milk chocolate chips
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted dark chocolate, and melted milk chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pecan Pie Sweet Bread

This sweet bread combines the rich flavors of pecans and maple syrup with a moist and tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cinnamon Roll Sweet Bread

Start your day with a sweet treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! This Cinnamon Roll Sweet Bread recipe combines the softness of a bread with the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Brown Sugar Walnut Sweet Bread

Moist and flavorful, this Brown Sugar Walnut Sweet Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. The combination of brown sugar, walnuts, and sweet bread makes it a delicious treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the sweet world of breads! This collection of 20 scrumptious sweet bread recipes is perfect for any occasion. From classic cinnamon swirl to decadent double chocolate, there’s something for everyone. Try banana nut and pumpkin chocolate chip for a seasonal twist, or go fruity with lemon blueberry and strawberry cream cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like apple cinnamon or indulgent like maple glazed, this list has got you covered. So go ahead, get baking, and satisfy your sweet tooth!

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