Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful sweet bread that combines a soft, fluffy texture with a rich swirl of cinnamon sugar. This comforting treat is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a simple dessert. Today, we’ll take you step-by-step through making Amish Cinnamon Bread at home, providing helpful tips along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will help you create a delicious loaf that will impress anyone who tries it.

This bread is more than just a sweet indulgence—it’s also a reflection of the rich culinary traditions of the Amish community. Known for their emphasis on simplicity and wholesome ingredients, Amish recipes are often passed down through generations, and Amish Cinnamon Bread is no exception. The sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it the ideal choice for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy weekends at home.

If you’re looking to make something equally simple but with fewer ingredients, try this 4 Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe for a quick and tasty treat that requires minimal effort.

Why Amish Cinnamon Bread Stands Out

Unlike many other cinnamon bread recipes, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a type of quick bread, which means it doesn’t require yeast or long rising times. Instead, it uses baking soda as a leavening agent to achieve its fluffy texture. Buttermilk is also a key ingredient, providing a slight tang and keeping the bread tender and moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make an easy substitute by mixing milk with lemon juice or vinegar. For more information on making buttermilk substitutes, check out buttermilk substitutes here.

What really makes this bread unique is the swirl of cinnamon sugar running throughout the loaf. This swirl not only adds a wonderful flavor but also creates a beautiful marbled appearance. Using high-quality, fresh ingredients—such as unsalted butter, freshly ground cinnamon, and buttermilk—enhances the flavor and ensures the best results. If you want more information about ingredient quality, see these tips for choosing quality ingredients.

Another great aspect of Amish Cinnamon Bread is its adaptability. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste by adding different spices, incorporating nuts or dried fruits, or adjusting the sweetness level. For more ways to modify recipes and get creative, take a look at these tips for baking substitutions and variations. This flexibility makes it the perfect recipe for experimenting and personalizing.

If you’re interested in a classic dessert, why not check out our Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers It’s a creamy and delicious dish that pairs well with this cinnamon bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread

To make this flavorful bread, gather the following ingredients:

Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, ensuring a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: Used in both the bread and the cinnamon swirl.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the bread.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with one cup of milk.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the bread.
Baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, used in the swirl to give the bread its signature flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Granulated sugar: Combines with the cinnamon to create the iconic swirl.
Ground cinnamon: For a rich, warm flavor throughout the bread.

Using the best ingredients possible is key to achieving a delicious result. Fresh cinnamon, quality butter, and freshly made buttermilk can significantly enhance the taste of the bread. If you’re looking for a less sweet version, you can adjust the amount of sugar without losing the bread’s wonderful texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Here’s how to make this delightful bread:

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Properly greasing the pan will ensure the bread releases easily once baked.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter bread. Creaming takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add Eggs and Buttermilk: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well mixed before adding the next. Then add the buttermilk and blend until combined. Buttermilk’s acidity helps tenderize the bread and react with baking soda for a good rise.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking soda, then gradually add them to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough bread. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy—those lumps will disappear while baking.
Create the Cinnamon Swirl: In a separate bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture, then add the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Swirling helps distribute the cinnamon evenly while creating an attractive pattern.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the bread starts to brown too quickly on top, tent it with foil to prevent over-browning.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the bread keeps its structure and doesn’t crumble when sliced.

Tips for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread

To make sure your Amish Cinnamon Bread turns out perfectly each time, consider these tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk mix more smoothly, which creates a better consistency in the bread. Cold ingredients can make the batter curdle, which can impact the final texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can make the bread dense rather than soft. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is just incorporated.
Light-Colored Baking Pans: Light-colored pans bake more evenly than dark ones, which can over-brown the bread. If you only have dark pans, lower the oven temperature by 25°F and start checking for doneness earlier.
Toothpick Test: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Cooling Patience: Let the bread cool before slicing to prevent crumbling and to achieve the best texture.

How to Store Amish Cinnamon Bread

At Room Temperature: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to three days to keep it moist and fresh.
Refrigerate: If you want the bread to last a bit longer, wrap it well and refrigerate it for up to five days. Warm it slightly in the microwave for a softer texture.
Freeze: To store for a longer period, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. The bread can be frozen for up to three months. Slice it before freezing for easy portioning.

Flavor Variations to Try

Add Nuts or Fruit: Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Muffin Option: Turn this bread into muffins by baking the batter in muffin tins for 25-30 minutes.
Glaze It: For a dessert version, drizzle the cooled bread with a powdered sugar glaze. You can even add a hint of vanilla or almond extract to the glaze.
Streusel Topping: Sprinkle a crumbly streusel topping over the batter before baking for added crunch.
Healthier Substitutes: Use whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar for a healthier version. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener.

Common Questions About Amish Cinnamon Bread

Can I Freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread?

Absolutely! This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely and store it for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying, and consider slicing before freezing for convenience.

How Can I Make Buttermilk at Home?

If you don’t have buttermilk, simply mix one cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and let it sit for about 10 minutes before using. This gives you a great substitute with similar acidity and flavor.

What Other Baking Pans Can I Use?

This recipe can be adapted to various pans. Muffin tins, mini loaf pans, or even a square baking dish can be used. Adjust the baking time accordingly; for muffins, bake for about 25-30 minutes.

Why Is My Bread Dense?

A dense texture could be due to overmixing the batter, using ingredients that are too cold, or expired baking soda. Make sure everything is fresh and at room temperature, and mix gently for the best results.

How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

To make this bread dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based option and use a non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) combined with lemon juice to replace the buttermilk.

Serving Ideas

Amish Cinnamon Bread is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more special:

Toast and Butter: Toast a slice and spread it with butter or cream cheese for a warm, indulgent breakfast.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a cozy treat.
Dessert Option: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Customizable Toppings: Serve with a variety of toppings like honey, nut butter, or fresh jam for a brunch option that everyone will love.

Benefits of Homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread

Affordable: Making bread at home is typically cheaper than buying from the store, and you can make several loaves with basic pantry ingredients.
Personalization: You control the ingredients—adjust the sweetness, add flavors, or make it dairy-free—making it suitable for dietary preferences.
Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade bread is free from preservatives and additives, offering a fresh, authentic flavor that store-bought bread can’t match.
Therapeutic Baking Process: Baking is a relaxing activity that helps you unwind, and there’s something deeply satisfying about creating a loaf of bread from scratch.
Sharing with Loved Ones: Homemade bread makes a thoughtful gift, and it’s a great way to show appreciation to friends and family.

Conclusion

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a simple yet delightful baked good that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—from a relaxed breakfast to a special dessert. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it alone, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, comforting flavors and soft texture make it the ideal treat for cozy mornings or celebratory gatherings.

Baking Amish Cinnamon Bread at home allows you to connect with traditional recipes and embrace the joy of creating something from scratch. This classic bread is a wonderful reminder of the comfort that simple, homemade food can bring to our lives—perfect for building memories and sharing love, one slice at a time.