Make moist and flavorful Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread with fresh rhubarb, warm cinnamon spice, and a tender crumb. This easy quick bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread

Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread is a soft, moist quick bread that balances the tartness of Rhubarb with the warm sweetness of cinnamon. It’s a comforting homemade bake that works beautifully for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light dessert.

The combination of tart fruit and sweet spice creates a rich flavor that improves even more the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and moist texture
Sweet and tangy flavor balance
Easy one-bowl quick bread
Perfect for using fresh rhubarb
Freezes well for later

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

½ cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar)

Add-ins

1½ to 2 cups chopped rhubarb
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional)

2 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in eggs one at a time.

Add vanilla extract and blend well.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture.

Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Rhubarb

Gently fold in chopped rhubarb (and nuts if using).

Step 7: Bake

Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.

Sprinkle cinnamon sugar topping if desired.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Best Results

Do not overmix the batter to keep bread tender
Use fresh rhubarb for best tart flavor
Add a streusel topping for extra sweetness
Let it rest overnight for improved flavor
Wrap tightly for soft texture

Storage Instructions

Room temperature: up to 2 days
Refrigerator: up to 5 days
Freezer: up to 2 months

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Rhubarb Bread is a comforting homemade treat that perfectly balances tart fruit and warm spice. Its soft crumb and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for breakfast, tea time, or a simple dessert.