Activate the Yeast: Begin by pouring the warm milk into a mixing bowl and sprinkling the yeast on top. Let it sit quietly for about five minutes until the surface becomes slightly foamy. This step shows that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Mix the Dough: Add the sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, flour, and salt into the bowl with the yeast mixture. Stir slowly with a spoon or dough hook until the ingredients begin forming a soft dough.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about eight to ten minutes. The dough should gradually become smooth and elastic, which helps create the soft texture in the finished bread.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Leave it in a warm spot for about one hour until it doubles in size. During this time, the yeast works gently to create a fluffy loaf.
Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. This mixture becomes the sweet layer that creates the beautiful swirl inside the bread.
Shape the Bread: Roll the risen dough into a rectangle about the length of your loaf pan. Spread the softened butter across the surface and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log so the swirl forms inside.
Second Rise: Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan with the seam side down. Cover lightly and allow it to rise again for about thirty minutes until slightly puffy.
Bake the Bread: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes. The top should look golden brown and the kitchen will smell wonderfully sweet and warm.
