Did you know a slice of Amish cinnamon bread has 23 grams of sugar? That’s almost all the sugar an adult should eat in a day! This sweet bread has won over many hearts, getting a 4.42 out of 5 rating from 371 votes. I’m excited to share this traditional cinnamon bread recipe that’s been loved for generations.
This homemade bread recipe is easy and fun for everyone. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. You’ll get two loaves of warm, fragrant Amish cinnamon bread. The best part? You don’t need to knead it!
This Amish cinnamon bread recipe has traveled from its humble beginnings to your kitchen. I’ll show you how to make this comforting classic. I’ll also share some baking tips and creative ways to serve it. Let’s explore the world of traditional cinnamon bread together!
The Heritage Behind Traditional Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish bread has a long history of simplicity and community. It has been loved for generations, with recipes shared within families. The art of Amish baking shows the values of hard work and resourcefulness in Amish culture.
Origins of Amish Baking Traditions
Amish baking traditions started in the 1860s. They became more popular during the Great Depression. This was a time when sharing resources was key. Amish cinnamon bread, a favorite in many homes, highlights the community’s focus on making hearty, tasty foods with simple ingredients.
Difference Between Amish Cinnamon Bread and Friendship Bread
Amish cinnamon bread and Amish friendship bread are both loved, but they differ. Cinnamon bread is a simple recipe. Friendship bread, on the other hand, involves a starter that’s shared among friends. This starter takes about 10 days to ferment and is then divided for baking and sharing.
Cultural Significance in Amish Communities
Bread making is very important in Amish culture. It’s not just about food; it’s a way to bring the community closer. Sharing bread starters, like with those in need, shows the Amish values of kindness and support. This tradition of making Pennsylvania Dutch bread often lasts for generations, keeping heritage and community ties strong.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States, 1860s |
| Popularity Surge | Great Depression era |
| Friendship Bread Cycle | 10 days fermentation |
| Sharing Practice | 1 portion kept, 3 shared |
| Cultural Value | Community support, heritage preservation |
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
I love baking Amish cinnamon bread. Its delicious taste comes from quality ingredients and their balance. Let’s look at what makes this bread special.
Key Baking Components
The base of this cinnamon swirl bread is room temperature ingredients. Softened butter, sugar, and eggs are the start. Flour, baking soda, and salt give it structure. Ground cinnamon adds the flavor we love.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup | Adds richness and moisture |
| Granulated sugar | 1½ cups | Sweetens and tenderizes |
| Eggs | 2 | Binds ingredients and adds structure |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Forms the bread’s structure |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | Leavening agent |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavors |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Provides signature flavor |
Buttermilk Substitution Options
Buttermilk makes the bread tender. If you don’t have it, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
The Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
For the swirl, mix ½ cup sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. This mix is perfect for the sweet and spicy taste of Amish cinnamon bread.
Baking is a science. Use room temperature ingredients and measure them accurately for the best cinnamon swirl bread.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making a rustic cinnamon loaf from scratch is a fun and rewarding task. Let’s explore how to create this tasty Amish-inspired bread.
Preparing the Batter
Begin by creaming 1/2 cup of butter with 1 cup of sugar in a small bowl. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup of buttermilk to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined.
Creating the Signature Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Pour half the batter into a prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar. Use a butter knife to create swirls in the batter.
Baking Temperature and Timing
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the bread for 45-50 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
| Step | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | 11 minutes | Room temperature |
| Bake | 45-50 minutes | 350°F |
| Cool | 10 minutes | Room temperature |
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Flavor
I’ve baked many loaves of sweet bread. I’m excited to share my top tips for perfecting your Amish cinnamon bread. Remember, this is a quick bread recipe. Less mixing is better to avoid tough bread.
When creaming the cinnamon sugar mixture, be gentle. Swirl it into the remaining batter for a marbled look. This ensures every bite is full of cinnamon-sugar goodness.
Here’s a handy table with key ratios for your Amish cinnamon bread:
| Ingredient | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Dry to Wet Ingredients | 4:3 |
| Sugar to Flour | 1:3 |
| Baking Powder per Cup of Flour | 0.67 teaspoons |
To check if your bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. For even more precision, use a thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C). Lastly, if you’re feeding a crowd, simply double the recipe for two delicious loaves of this beloved sweet bread.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Keeping your Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh is all about proper storage. Let’s look at how to store, freeze, and serve this tasty treat.
Proper Storage Methods
First, cool your bread on wire racks for about 20 minutes. This is until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. For short-term storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days.
If you need it to last longer, pop it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your Amish Cinnamon Bread, wrap it in a triple layer of plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Creative Serving Ideas
While delicious on its own, there are many ways to enjoy this bread:
- Toast slices and spread with butter for a warm, comforting snack
- Use it to make French toast for a decadent breakfast
- Cube the bread and use it in a trifle for a unique dessert
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Remember, this bread is best enjoyed within a few days of baking. Its rich cinnamon flavor and soft texture make it a perfect treat any time of day. Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best taste experience.
Conclusion
I’ve looked into the rich history of Amish cinnamon bread. This recipe has been loved for ages. It mixes flour, baking soda, and sugar to make a soft, tasty loaf.
The recipe is easy to make but full of flavor. It works well in traditional loaf pans or gluten-free ones. The cinnamon swirl adds a special touch, making it even more delicious.
Amish cinnamon bread is more than food. It shows the importance of community and homemade love. By baking it, we join a tradition that’s over 300 years old. So, why not try making it? Your home will smell amazing, and you’ll have a yummy loaf to enjoy or share.
FAQ – Amish Cinnamon Bread
Can I make Amish Cinnamon Bread without buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar instead of buttermilk. Just let it sit for 5 minutes before adding it to the recipe.
How long does Amish Cinnamon Bread stay fresh?
Amish Cinnamon Bread stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage.
What’s the difference between Amish Cinnamon Bread and Amish Friendship Bread?
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread that doesn’t need a starter. Amish Friendship Bread, on the other hand, uses a fermented sourdough starter and is shared among friends.
Can I use a different type of pan for baking Amish Cinnamon Bread?
You can use different sizes or shapes of pans for baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time and keep an eye on the bread to avoid over-baking.
How do I know when my Amish Cinnamon Bread is fully baked?
Check if a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
Can I add nuts or raisins to my Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Absolutely! Add 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just gently fold them in before adding the batter to the pan.
Is it necessary to use room temperature ingredients?
Yes, using room temperature ingredients, like butter and eggs, helps create a smoother batter. This ensures even baking and a better texture for your Amish Cinnamon Bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using gluten-free flour blends instead of wheat flour. The texture might be different, and you might need to adjust the liquid amounts.
