Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful treat that serves up a warm, comforting slice of nostalgia with every bite. Commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, this bread is perfect for sharing at gatherings or for meal prep throughout the week. The recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf, making it easy to whip up and practical for any home baker. With its simple ingredients and approachable technique, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a must-try for anyone looking to create a cozy kitchen moment.
This is a delicious recipe that captures the essence of home-baked goodness. Serve it alongside coffee for breakfast or enjoy it as a sweet snack throughout the day. The moist texture and sweet cinnamon swirl make it a favorite for all age groups.
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy preparation
- Family-friendly
- Budget-friendly
- Quick cooking
- Meal prep friendly
- Simple ingredients
How to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup softened butter (salted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF and grease a 9X5 loaf pan with butter or oil.
- Add the softened butter to a large bowl with a hand mixer, OR a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Add in granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter and mix on medium-high speed until the butter and sugars have creamed and are light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and buttermilk and mix until fully incorporated.
- Sift the flour and baking soda into the bowl and mix just until it starts to come together. Use a silicone spatula to fold everything together until the flour is absorbed and no large lumps remain.
- Stir together ⅓ cup of sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon and set aside.
- Add half of the batter to the prepared loaf pan, and add half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top of the batter. Use a butter knife to swirl it into the batter.
- Add the remaining half of the batter on top, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture and swirl it into the top layer of batter using a butter knife.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter on top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-70 minutes, or until a cake tester (or toothpick) comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, and then gently coax it out of the loaf pan and transfer to a wire rack. Allow to cool to room temperature before wrapping and storing.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a versatile option that can be enjoyed in various ways. For breakfast, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the bread pair beautifully with a light cream cheese spread or a dollop of whipped cream, elevating your morning routine.
For an afternoon snack, a slice of this bread can complement a cup of tea or hot chocolate. Serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or a drizzle of icing for a touch of sweetness. You could also toast slices and add a smear of almond butter or jam to enhance the taste.
Additionally, this bread can be enjoyed as a dessert. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The combination of warm, cinnamon-infused bread with cold ice cream creates an indulgent treat that is sure to please everyone.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
For storage, Amish Cinnamon Bread can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, but for longevity, store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use an airtight container to keep it safe. This bread can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating is easy; you can use your oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, wrap the bread in foil and warm it at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes. In the microwave, heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, depending on your microwave’s wattage, for a warm, fresh taste.
Cooking Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure they blend smoothly.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour; this could result in a denser texture.
- For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon in the batter or the topping.
- Add nuts or raisins to the batter for an additional texture and flavor boost.
- To prevent the top from browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape and moisture.
- Experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or maple, for a unique twist.
- Consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier version; just be aware it might change the texture slightly.
Quick Kitchen Tips
- Use a silicone spatula for easy folding and scraping.
- A butter knife is ideal for swirling ingredients without adding too much mixing.
- Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Store cinnamon in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.
Recipe Variations
- Healthy Version: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a warm, spiced aroma.
- High-Protein: Incorporate protein powder into the batter for an extra boost.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the egg with a flaxseed gel (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan alternative.
- Healthier Swaps: Use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Zesty Addition: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
FAQs
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you lack buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Can I add nuts or fruits to the recipe?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips can be added to the batter to enhance the flavor and texture of your bread.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Check for doneness using a cake tester or toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the loaf.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have a larger loaf pan or multiple pans on hand, as this recipe works well for doubling.
How should I serve the bread?
Amish Cinnamon Bread can be enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or even served warm with a scoop of ice cream for dessert.
Conclusion
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a tasty and delightful option for anyone looking to bring warmth and comfort into their kitchen. Its simple preparation, budget-friendly ingredients, and heartwarming flavors make it an ideal choice for any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with family and friends, this recipe captures the spirit of home baking. Give it a try, and savor the delightful taste of Amish Cinnamon Bread today!
Amish Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF and grease a 9X5 loaf pan with butter or oil.
- Add the softened butter to a large bowl with a hand mixer, or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Add in granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter and mix on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and buttermilk, and mix until fully incorporated.
- Sift the flour and baking soda into the bowl and mix just until it starts to come together. Use a silicone spatula to fold everything together until the flour is absorbed and no large lumps remain.
- Stir together the cinnamon and sugar mixture and set aside.
- Add half of the batter to the prepared loaf pan, and sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Swirl it into the batter with a butter knife.
- Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top and swirl it in with a butter knife.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-70 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.