Amish cinnamon bread recipe is a comforting, sweet loaf that blends fluffy homemade dough with a perfectly spiced cinnamon-sugar swirl. The best part is it comes together quickly using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a classic treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just about any time you want something warm and delicious.
Ever bite into a slice of cinnamon bread that’s supposed to be rich and moist—only to find it bland and dry? If you’ve struggled to get that delicate crumb and big cinnamon flavor just right, you’re not alone. But this recipe changes all of that with a foolproof method that guarantees a fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth result. With easy steps and comforting ingredients like sugar, butter, and tangy buttermilk, you’ll be on your way to the perfect loaf in no time.
In this guide, we’ll walk through each stage of the baking process, offer handy tips for success, and share simple variations to make this amish cinnamon bread recipe truly your own.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
There’s something magical about a freshly baked loaf that fills your home with the irresistible scent of cinnamon. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe offers an approachable way to create a sweet bread that feels both rustic and special. Below are a few reasons to fall in love with this loaf:
- Classic Comfort
- The subtle sweetness and buttery crumb echo the cozy warmth of traditional Amish baking.
- Each slice brings a nostalgic, homey flavor reminiscent of simpler times.
- Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Clear, step-by-step directions mean you can tackle this recipe even if you’re new to bread-making.
- No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Versatile Use
- Enjoy a slice for breakfast, as a snack, or even warmed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- It’s also an excellent gift for neighbors, friends, or family.
- Perfect Moisture and Texture
- The swirl of cinnamon sugar locks in moisture, preventing that dry texture many store-bought sweet breads have.
- A crisp, golden exterior balances beautifully with a soft, tender crumb.
By the end of this section, you’ll be ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the ingredients. Next up, we’ll explore what goes into this bread and how each component contributes to its irresistible taste.
Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe Ingredients
Choosing the right mix of ingredients is key to achieving that classic, sweet taste and moist texture. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need, along with a few fun twists to keep it interesting.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups)
Forms the foundation of the loaf. A reliable, everyday flour is perfect for soft, tender bread. - Granulated Sugar (1 cup + extra for topping)
Adds sweetness and pairs with cinnamon to create that signature swirl.
Pro Tip: Try using brown sugar for the swirl if you prefer a caramel-like depth. - Baking Powder (2 teaspoons)
Helps the bread rise and lightens the crumb. - Salt (½ teaspoon)
Balances sweetness and amplifies overall flavor. - Buttermilk (1 cup)
Adds a subtle tang and extra moisture.
Variation: If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1 cup of regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. - Egg (1 large)
Binds everything together, giving structure and tenderness. - Butter (½ cup, melted)
Brings richness, moisture, and a hint of savory that complements the sweetness. - Cinnamon (1 tablespoon + extra for topping)
Infuses warm spice throughout the bread.
Pro Tip: Swap in nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a fun twist.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped Nuts (½ cup, optional) for extra crunch.
- Raisins (½ cup, optional) for a chewy, fruity contrast.
Once your ingredients are gathered, you’re almost ready to bake. Next, let’s move on to the step-by-step process that will bring this loaf to life.
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
Baking this sweet loaf is straightforward and stress-free. Just remember to prep your ingredients ahead of time and preheat your oven so everything flows smoothly. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with a light layer of grease or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent, ensuring a uniform rise in your bread.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until fully combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Caution: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so stir just until combined.
4. Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix a few tablespoons of granulated sugar and cinnamon (adjust to taste).
- Spread half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Add the remaining batter, then finish with the remaining cinnamon-sugar swirl.
- Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter for a marbled effect.
5. Bake and Test for Doneness
- Place the loaf on the center rack of your oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the internal temperature of fully baked bread should be around 190°F (88°C).
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and Slice
- Let the loaf rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack.
- Once the bread has cooled slightly, slice and enjoy!
That’s it! A little patience and some pantry staples transform into a cinnamon-kissed loaf of deliciousness. Next, we’ll look at some chef-inspired tips and variation ideas to elevate your baking experience.
Pro Tips and Variations for Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Want to get more creative with your homemade loaf? Here are a few suggestions that can take your bread from great to extraordinary:
- Use a Proper Loaf Pan
- A pan measuring about 9×5 inches ensures your bread bakes evenly.
- Too large, and your loaf might spread thin and dry out. Too small, and it could spill over.
- Experiment with Different Sweeteners
- Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like flavor to the swirl.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Consider reducing the overall liquid a bit if you’re adding these to the batter.
- Add a Crunchy Topping
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts along with cinnamon-sugar for a crisp texture on top.
- A streusel topping made from flour, sugar, and cold butter can also add a bakery-style finish.
- Boost the Aroma
- A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can enhance the warmth of cinnamon.
- For a fall-inspired twist, add a dash of pumpkin pie spice.
- Test the Batter Consistency
- If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk or buttermilk. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
- Weather and humidity can affect batter consistency, so be flexible.
- Consider a Frosting Drizzle
- A light icing made from powdered sugar and milk can sweeten up the top.
- If you prefer less sugar, skip the drizzle or apply it sparingly.
Try one or two of these variations to keep things exciting. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll find endless ways to personalize the recipe. Up next: serving suggestions that can elevate each slice even more.
Serving Suggestions for Amish Cinnamon Bread
A warm slice of cinnamon bread is already a treat, but pairing it with the right sides or spreads can make each bite even more memorable. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:
- Classic Butter Spread
- Nothing beats a simple pat of butter that melts on a warm slice, accentuating the cinnamon.
- Cream Cheese Spread
- Whip cream cheese with a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for an indulgent topping.
- Fresh Fruit
- Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or peaches add color and a burst of natural sweetness.
- Try a small dollop of fruit compote if you want a jam-like touch.
- Yogurt and Berries
- Enjoy a slice alongside Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast.
- Ice Cream for Dessert
- Warm a slice for a few seconds in the microwave and top it with vanilla ice cream for a sweet finale to any meal.
A little creativity goes a long way in turning a single loaf into multiple meal or dessert options. Once you’ve enjoyed your first batch, you’ll probably have leftovers—so let’s talk about storing them properly to keep that fresh-baked flavor.
Storing and Reheating Amish Cinnamon Bread Leftovers
One of the best things about this sweet loaf is how well it keeps its flavor and texture, even days after baking. Proper storage, however, is key.
- Cool Completely
- Before storing, make sure your bread is at room temperature to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Wrap It Up
- Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a resealable plastic bag for extra protection against air and moisture.
- Counter vs. Fridge
- On the counter, the loaf stays fresh for about 3 days.
- In the fridge, it can last up to 1 week but keep it in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
- Reheating Tips
- Gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
- If reheating in a conventional oven, wrap your slice in foil and heat at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–10 minutes.
With these steps, every slice will taste just as good as the day you baked it. Next, we’ll summarize the top highlights so you can keep them in mind before diving into our FAQ section.
Other Delicious Recipes You Can Try
Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup butter melted
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon plus extra for topping
(Optional) ½ cup chopped nuts or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
- Form Batter: Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, then add the remaining batter. Finish with more cinnamon-sugar on top and swirl lightly with a knife.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. If needed, cover with foil in the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool before slicing.
Notes
Key Takeaways
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Everyday pantry staples create a cozy loaf brimming with cinnamon goodness.
- Beginner-Friendly Method: Clear steps and minimal fuss make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.
- Easy Customization: Nuts, drizzles, or spice variations let you tailor the bread to your liking.
- Long-Lasting Freshness: Proper wrapping ensures your loaf stays moist and tasty for days.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack with endless topping choices.
If you still have questions about Amish bread, the baking process, or storage, keep reading. The FAQs below address some of the most common inquiries so you can bake with confidence.
FAQs About Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Why is it called Amish bread?
The term “Amish bread” often refers to recipes passed down through traditional Amish communities known for their simple, home-style cooking. While variations of cinnamon bread exist in many regions, the Amish version typically emphasizes wholesome ingredients and time-tested baking methods that focus on comfort and simplicity.
Can you freeze Amish cinnamon bread?
Absolutely! First, let the bread cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for best results.
Why can’t you use metal with Amish Friendship Bread?
Traditional Amish Friendship Bread uses a fermenting starter that can react with metal utensils or bowls, potentially affecting the fermentation process. The acidity of the starter may leach tiny metal particles or lead to off-flavors. Using glass, plastic, or ceramic containers is recommended to keep the starter healthy.
Why isn’t my Amish Friendship Bread starter bubbling?
Starters need warmth, time, and the right balance of yeast and sugar to develop bubbles. If your kitchen is too cold (below about 70°F/21°C), the yeast might slow down. Also, ensure you’re feeding the starter with sufficient sugar or flour and giving it enough time—about 5–10 days—to become active.
Should you refrigerate cinnamon bread?
While you can store cinnamon bread at room temperature for a few days, refrigeration extends its shelf life to about a week. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness. If you prefer a soft, fresh-baked feel, simply warm each slice before serving.
How to avoid gaps when making cinnamon bread?
Gaps can form when the batter and cinnamon-sugar swirl don’t adhere properly. To minimize gaps, slightly swirl the batter layers with a knife or spatula so the cinnamon mixture bonds with the bread batter. Also, avoid overfilling the loaf pan, which can lead to uneven baking and pockets of air.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread
Nothing beats the aroma of a homemade loaf, especially one infused with the sweet warmth of cinnamon. This amish cinnamon bread recipe is a straightforward way to bring traditional Amish-inspired comfort to your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own flair, each slice promises a heartwarming taste of home. We hope you’ll try it out, share a slice with friends, and come back to let us know how it turned out. Happy baking!