Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting homemade treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a must-try. This delicious quick bread has a moist, buttery texture with layers of cinnamon-sugar goodness swirled throughout. Best of all, there’s no kneading involved—just mix, layer, and bake! It’s a simple recipe that delivers exceptional results every time.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. Be warned: this bread is so irresistible, it’ll be gone in 15 minutes flat!
Introduction and Origin
Amish Cinnamon Bread is inspired by the rich baking traditions of the Amish, known for their simple, hearty recipes made from scratch. While not a traditional Amish Friendship Bread (which requires a starter), this recipe offers similar flavors and texture without the extra steps. It’s perfect for anyone craving a homemade treat with minimal effort.
Cultural Significance
Cinnamon bread has long been a staple in homes, evoking feelings of warmth and togetherness. This recipe channels those same sentiments, offering a quick yet delicious way to bring a little sweetness to your day. Whether shared at family gatherings, given as a gift, or enjoyed as a breakfast treat, Amish Cinnamon Bread has a timeless appeal that bridges generations.
Ingredients Quantity (Makes 2 Loaves)
For the Batter:
• 1 cup (240g) butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (480ml) buttermilk (or homemade substitute: 2 cups milk + 2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice)
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:
• 2/3 cup (133g) sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Optional Additions
• Chopped Nuts: Add 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
• Raisins: Stir 1/2 cup of raisins into the batter for added sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla for extra flavor depth.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bread for a dessert-like finish.
Tips for Success
1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs mix more evenly, ensuring a smooth batter.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread; mix just until combined.
3. Grease Your Pans Well: Use butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
4. Swirl with Care: Swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture gently to create a marbled effect without overblending.
5. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool for 20 minutes in the pan before removing to avoid crumbling.
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two loaf pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the buttermilk, flour, and baking soda, mixing until just combined.
4. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter (or slightly less) into the prepared loaf pans, dividing it evenly between the two.
5. Add Cinnamon-Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in each pan.
6. Top and Swirl: Add the remaining batter to the pans and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon into the batter.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Description
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a soft, tender quick bread with a sweet and slightly spiced flavor profile. The cinnamon-sugar mixture creates a marbled effect and adds a delightful crunch to the crust. The buttermilk ensures a moist crumb that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices Per Loaf)
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition of baking that brings people together. Its straightforward preparation and incredible flavor make it a favorite for all occasions. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread will quickly become a staple in your home.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this recipe leans on the indulgent side, you can make simple swaps to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. Try using whole wheat flour for added fiber, reduce the sugar slightly, or opt for plant-based butter and milk to make it dairy-free. No matter how you customize it, Amish Cinnamon Bread will remain a comforting, feel-good treat.
Make a batch today and watch it disappear—it’s that good!