Cinnamon Sugar Mini Loaves: A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon until well mixed.
2. Set aside to sprinkle on top of the loaves before baking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini loaf pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Fill the Loaf Pans

1. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini loaf pans, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1. Lightly brush the top of each loaf with melted butter.
2. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of each loaf. This will create a sweet, slightly crunchy topping as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Loaves

1. Place the mini loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Mini Loaves

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Let the butter, eggs, and sour cream come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and better texture in the finished loaves.
• Add a Swirl: For an extra cinnamon flavor, swirl a bit of the cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter before baking.
• Try Adding Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These mini loaves are delicious as they are, but here are a few ideas to elevate your experience:

• Serve Warm: Enjoy a warm slice with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: The rich cinnamon flavor is a wonderful complement to coffee, chai, or spiced tea.
• Wrap and Gift: Wrap each mini loaf in cellophane with a ribbon for a lovely homemade gift.

Storage Instructions

Store the loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.