Cozy Homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Introduction:

Amish Cinnamon Bread, a beloved treat often passed down through generations, is the epitome of comfort food. The fragrance of cinnamon and sugar filling the air as this bread bakes is simply irresistible. This sweet, fluffy bread has a tender crumb and is infused with layers of rich cinnamon-sugar goodness. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless classic, and despite its humble ingredients, it tastes like something special—maybe even a little magical. It’s loved by families, served at gatherings, and often gifted to neighbors, making it a symbol of Amish hospitality. Whether you’ve had it before or you’re making it for the first time, this bread is bound to make your home feel even cozier.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk (you can substitute with regular milk if needed)
½ cup butter (softened)
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:

¼ cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup melted butter (for the swirl)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:

In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Set it aside. This mixture will create the delicious swirl throughout the bread.

3. Prepare the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer on medium speed, or do it by hand with a whisk if you prefer.

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gradually add the buttermilk and mix until smooth.

4. Add Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep the bread light and tender.

5. Layer the Cinnamon-Sugar:

Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle with half of the melted butter and sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar into the batter using a knife or skewer.

Add the remaining batter on top and repeat the process with the remaining melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture. Swirl again to create those marbled layers.

6. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. If the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully done.

7. Cool and Serve:

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Methods & Tips for Perfection:

Swirling Technique: For the best swirl effect, use a skewer, butter knife, or chopstick. Gently swirl in a figure-eight motion to avoid over-mixing the cinnamon-sugar into the batter. You want to keep it marbled, not completely blended in.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Storage: Amish Cinnamon Bread stays fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

History of Amish Cinnamon Bread:

The recipe for Amish Cinnamon Bread, like many traditional Amish recipes, has been passed down through generations. Amish people are known for their simple, old-fashioned ways, and their recipes often reflect their homesteading roots. The cinnamon bread, in particular, was often made for special occasions, though it became a common gift for friends and neighbors in the Amish community. The bread’s warm aroma and comforting flavor make it a favorite for sharing and creating lasting memories.

Formation & Evolution:

While the bread itself is centuries old, its modern iterations—like the addition of cinnamon sugar—were likely inspired by European influences. The Amish, particularly those in Pennsylvania, took many recipes from European settlers and made them their own, modifying ingredients and cooking techniques to fit their needs. Today, Amish Cinnamon Bread is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, served at church functions, or shared with friends and family.

Conclusion:

Homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a treat; it’s an experience. The sweet, cinnamon-sugar swirl creates an irresistible pull, inviting you to slice just one more piece. With its rich history and warm flavors, it’s a comforting reminder of simpler times, where good food was meant to be shared.

This bread is perfect for any occasion, and once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an easy way to bring a taste of Amish tradition into your kitchen. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking a loaf of cozy goodness that will surely become a family favorite.

Lovers of Amish Cinnamon Bread:

Those who love Amish Cinnamon Bread often rave about its combination of sweet, spiced layers and the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s a favorite among breakfast lovers, coffee drinkers, and cinnamon enthusiasts. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it on your own, Amish Cinnamon Bread has a special way of making people feel at home.

A Final Thought for Cinnamon Lovers:

If you’re someone who can’t get enough of cinnamon, this bread is your dream come true! The layers of cinnamon-sugar inside and the melt-in-your-mouth texture make this the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for sharing, or for keeping all to yourself. Either way, you’ll be creating moments that feel just as cozy and inviting as the bread itself.

Enjoy baking, and most importantly, enjoy the delightful slices of cinnamon heaven!