Amish Cinnamon Bread
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Amish Cinnamon Bread is one of those recipes that fills your home with the irresistible scent of baking during the fall. This isn’t just a nostalgic dish; it’s a treasure from Amish kitchens, known for its moist texture and delightful swirls of cinnamon sugar. I remember the first time I had a slice—warm, buttery, and bursting with flavor. Each bite brings back memories of family gatherings, where this sweet bread often graces the table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch or need a comforting option for an afternoon coffee break, this recipe captures both simplicity and soul.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Amish Cinnamon Bread a beloved recipe is its perfect blend of sweetness, warmth, and nostalgia. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and the kind of treat that brings smiles to the whole family! Ideal for a cozy weekend brunch or as a simple dessert after dinner, it’s surprisingly versatile. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is sure to make everyone feel right at home.
“This bread is the stuff of memories! It’s so easy to whip up, and the cinnamon-sugar layer is pure magic. It became a staple in our house!” – A satisfied home baker
The cooking process explained
Making Amish Cinnamon Bread is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll begin by creaming butter with sugar and eggs, then mixing in buttermilk and flour to create a luscious batter. The magic happens when you layer this fluffy batter with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating that delightful swirl effect. As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with that sweet, comforting aroma—a promise of deliciousness to come.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create this delightful bread:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk (or substitute with 2 cups milk + 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2/3 cup sugar (for the cinnamon sugar mixture)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
For dairy-sensitive bakers, using a milk and vinegar combination offers a fantastic alternative to buttermilk without compromising taste!
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two standard loaf pans thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the buttermilk, followed by the flour and baking soda. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until smoothly incorporated.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon until well blended.
- Pour about half of the batter into each prepared loaf pan, making sure each has approximately a quarter of the total batter.
- Generously sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in both pans.
- Carefully distribute the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer in each pan, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- With a butter knife, gently swirl through the layers using a figure-eight motion to achieve that classic cinnamon swirl.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Best ways to enjoy it
Amish Cinnamon Bread is delicious enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but it doesn’t end there! Try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of icing for a sweet treat. It also pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it the perfect accompaniment to your morning ritual or afternoon snack. You can even toast it lightly for an added crunch.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you’re not finishing it in that time, consider freezing it! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds, or toast it for a delightful crispy crust.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix the batter: This bread benefits from gentle mixing. Overworking the dough can lead to tough bread.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to sit out before baking for the best texture.
- Swirl with care: The key to a beautiful swirl is to keep it gentle. Too much mixing might blend the layers instead of swirling them.
Creative twists
While the classic version is unbeatable, why not experiment? You could add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist on texture. For a seasonal variation, try swapping the cinnamon for pumpkin spice or adding a layer of fresh apples to the batter for an apple-cinnamon delight. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Prep time usually takes about 20 minutes, with a total baking time of 45-50 minutes.
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! You can create a quick substitute using regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
How do I know if my bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Embarking on the journey to bake this delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread is an experience filled with warmth and flavor, making it a treasured recipe that you’ll want to share with others!
Amish Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two standard loaf pans thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the buttermilk, followed by the flour and baking soda. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until smoothly incorporated.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon until well blended.
- Pour about half of the batter into each prepared loaf pan.
- Generously sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in both pans.
- Carefully distribute the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer in each pan, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the layers using a figure-eight motion to achieve that classic cinnamon swirl.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
