When the smell of fresh bread fills the air, I remember my grandma’s kitchen. She taught me how to make Amish cinnamon bread. It was a special time, filled with kneading, sifting spices, and swirling cinnamon sugar.
This easy Amish cinnamon bread recipe brings back those memories. It’s a quick bread that’s easy to make, needing no yeast or starter. With simple ingredients, you can make this beloved treat for your loved ones.
Main Highlights
- Amish Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread version of the traditional Amish friendship bread, requiring no yeast or sourdough starter.
- The recipe yields two loaves, making it ideal for personal enjoyment and gift-giving.
- Saigon cinnamon is used for its stronger, spicier flavor compared to common ground cinnamon.
- Recommendations are provided for reducing sugar content while maintaining the bread’s delicious taste and texture.
- The recipe is freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Amish tradition even on busy weekdays.
The Heritage and History of Traditional Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish cinnamon bread has a long and rich history in the Amish community of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. It’s a quick bread loved by many, passed down through generations. The Amish friendship bread tradition started in the late 20th century with a sweet, yeasted sourdough.
Origins of Amish Friendship Bread Tradition
The Amish friendship bread tradition began with sharing a starter mix. It was made of yeast, flour, sugar, and milk. This shared mix showed the Amish values of togetherness and generosity.
Evolution from Yeast to Quick Bread
The original Amish friendship bread recipe changed over time. It went from a yeasted sourdough to a quick bread. This change made the bread easier to make, without a starter and less prep time.
Cultural Significance in Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine
Amish cinnamon bread is a symbol of the Amish community’s baking heritage. It’s a big part of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. The recipe’s popularity and changes show the Amish commitment to their traditions and modern needs.
Why This No-Yeast Version Is Perfect for Modern Bakers
Baking bread at home is rewarding, but yeast recipes need a lot of prep and time. This no-yeast Amish Cinnamon Bread is great for quick, easy bread making.
This no-yeast recipe skips the sourdough starter and feeding time. It uses common pantry ingredients for a tasty cinnamon quick bread. It’s ready fast.
This easy baking recipe is perfect for beginners. You don’t need special tools or long proofing times. Make a batch of this quick bread quickly for a warm cinnamon treat.
Without yeast, you can enjoy Amish Cinnamon Bread’s classic taste easily. This makes baking simpler and more fun. It’s great for any time.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, try this no-yeast Amish Cinnamon Bread. It’s easy to make and captures the traditional Amish baking taste. It’s a great choice for today’s home bakers.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Making the perfect Amish cinnamon bread needs the right mix of ingredients. You’ll need quality dairy and spices. Each part is key to the bread’s taste and feel.
Quality Butter and Dairy Components
Buttermilk is at the core of this recipe. It adds a tangy flavor and makes the bread moist. Softened butter adds fats for a tender crumb. You’ll need 1 cup of buttermilk and 1/2 cup of softened butter.
Dry Ingredients and Spices
The dry ingredients are just as important. Start with 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour for structure. 1 teaspoon of baking soda helps it rise and become light. For sweetness, use 1 cup of granulated sugar in the batter and 1/3 cup for the cinnamon sugar swirl. Lastly, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon gives it that Amish flavor.
Buttermilk Alternatives
Need buttermilk? Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. It’s a good substitute for authentic buttermilk in your Amish cinnamon bread.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake homemade Amish cinnamon bread. It will fill your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Softened Butter | 1/2 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup (plus 1/3 cup for swirl) |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon (plus 2 teaspoons for swirl) |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To bake the perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread, you need some key tools. Start with two 9×5 inch loaf pans. Non-stick pans make it easy to remove the bread.
Parchment paper is also important. It helps lift the loaves out of the pans without a fuss.
For mixing the batter, you’ll need several mixing bowls. A whisk and either a stand mixer or a hand mixer are also necessary. Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient ratios.
A cooling rack is needed for cooling the bread. A blunt knife helps if the bread sticks to the pan.
With these baking equipment items, you’re ready to make a tasty Amish Cinnamon Bread at home.
Step-by-Step Mixing and Preparation Process
Making Amish cinnamon bread is a mix of old traditions and new baking ways. Start by mixing the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Next, add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients. These are the flour, baking soda, and a bit of salt.
Creating the Perfect Batter
Now, add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mix, one at a time. Mix gently after each addition. This makes a thick, moist batter. Don’t overmix to avoid tough bread.
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Technique
To make the cinnamon sugar mixture swirl, spread half the batter in a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over it. Then, add the rest of the batter and more cinnamon sugar on top.
Use a knife to make a swirl pattern in the batter. This adds a beautiful touch to your bread.
Pan Preparation Tips
To make your bread easy to remove, grease the pan well. You can also line it with parchment paper. This trick helps your bread look perfect every time.
Baking Tips for Consistent Results
To make delicious Amish cinnamon bread, follow these tips. First, bake at 325°F (165°C) for 60-65 minutes. Use a toothpick to check if it’s done – it should be clean.
If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil. This stops it from getting too dark.
For even baking, turn the pan halfway through. This makes sure the bread is cooked on all sides. Also, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This makes the batter smooth and perfect.
Don’t overmix the batter. It can make the bread tough. Just mix until everything is combined. These tips will help you bake a great Amish cinnamon bread every time.
| Baking Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 60-65 minutes | Ensures proper doneness and prevents over-browning |
| Check for doneness with a toothpick | Confirms the bread is fully cooked through |
| Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly | Prevents the exterior from overcooking while allowing the interior to finish |
| Rotate the pan halfway through the baking | Promotes even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the loaf |
| Use room temperature ingredients | Helps create a smooth, cohesive batter for the perfect crumb |
| Avoid overmixing the batter | Prevents a tough, dense bread and maintains a light, tender texture |
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl
Making the perfect cinnamon swirl in your homemade Amish-style bread is key. It brings out the flavor and makes it look great. The secret is in how you layer and swirl the dough.
Layering Method
Start by putting half the dough in your loaf pan. Sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar over it. Then, add the rest of the dough and the last of the cinnamon sugar on top.
Swirling Techniques
Use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to swirl the dough. Move it in a figure-eight motion. Don’t swirl too much to keep the layers separate.
The layered and swirled dough is what makes cinnamon swirl bread special. It smells amazing, tastes tender, and looks stunning. Learning these techniques will make your homemade Amish cinnamon bread perfect.
Storage and Freshness Guidelines
Keeping your homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh is simple. You can store it at room temperature for 2-3 days. Or, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, it stays tasty and soft.
To freeze your bread, cool it down first. Then, wrap it in plastic and foil. This keeps it fresh for 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw it at room temperature. Then, warm it up in the oven or microwave.
Want to give the bread as a gift? Wrap it in a nice kitchen towel or a decorative box. This makes it a special and memorable gift.
Bread Storage Tips:
- Store at room temperature for 2-3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week
- Freeze for up to 3 months (double-wrapped in plastic and foil)
- Reheat frozen bread in the oven or microwave
- Wrap in a towel or place in a decorative box for gifting
Follow these easy tips to keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a classic that can be enjoyed in many ways. Try it warm with butter for a tasty breakfast or snack. Or, make it into French toast for a special treat.
Adding nuts like walnuts or almonds can make it even better. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries are also great. For chocolate lovers, try adding chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
Want a healthier option? Use less sugar or try coconut sugar or monk fruit. Serve it with vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. This recipe is sure to please.
The Amish Friendship Bread tradition is full of culture. You can add your twist to this classic. Whether you stick to cinnamon or try new flavors, it’s always a warm, comforting treat.
Conclusion
Homemade Amish cinnamon bread is a mix of old traditions and new ease. This recipe brings the cozy feel of Amish baking to your home. It’s great for sharing with loved ones, and keeping the Amish bread tradition alive.
Enjoy it as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. This sweet Amish bread recipe adds a special touch to any moment.
The recipe has a high rating of 4.23 out of 5 stars from 193 votes. It shows how much bakers love it. The quick prep time and simple ingredients make it a hit for today’s bakers.
The Amish Friendship Bread starter is also very versatile. It can be used in over 250 recipes. The tips for keeping the starter healthy help bakers make great bread every time.
Plus, you can make the recipe gluten-free. You can also reheat and store the bread. This Amish cinnamon bread recipe is easy and fun for home bakers.
FAQ
What is Amish Cinnamon Bread?
What is the history and heritage of traditional Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread that’s easy to make. It doesn’t need yeast or a sourdough starter. It makes two loaves, great for sharing, with a rich cinnamon taste and a crunchy crust.
Amish Friendship bread started gaining popularity in the late 20th century. It was a sweet, yeasted sourdough bread made with a starter shared among friends. Over time, Amish families have made their special versions of this bread.
Why is this no-yeast version of Amish Cinnamon Bread ideal for modern bakers?
This quick bread keeps the tradition alive but is easier to make. It doesn’t need a starter and is quicker to prepare. This makes it perfect for beginners.
What are the key ingredients in Amish Cinnamon Bread?
The main ingredients are cake flour, sugar, cinnamon, eggs, milk, oil, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla. Using high-quality Saigon cinnamon adds a stronger flavor.
What tools and equipment are needed to make Amish Cinnamon Bread?
You’ll need two 9×5 inch loaf pans, parchment paper, and mixing bowls. Also, a whisk, mixer, measuring tools, and a cooling rack. Parchment paper makes removing the bread easy.
How do you prepare the batter and create the cinnamon swirl?
First, cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients separately. Add them and milk to the butter mixture in turns. For the swirl, layer half the batter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, add more batter, and top with sugar. Use a knife to make swirls.
What are the baking tips for consistent results?
Bake at 325°F for 60-65 minutes. Check with a toothpick. If the top browns too fast, cover with foil. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes before removing. Rotate the pan for even baking. Use room temperature ingredients and don’t overmix.
How do you achieve the perfect cinnamon swirl in the bread?
For a great swirl, layer half the batter, then 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar. Add the rest of the batter and sugar. Use a knife to make swirls by moving it in a figure-eight pattern. Don’t overdo it to keep the layers separate.
How do you store and preserve Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Store it at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week. Freeze for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then wrap in plastic and foil. Thaw at room temperature and reheat if needed.
What are some creative variations and serving suggestions for Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Try adding nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips. Use different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. Serve warm with butter or as French toast. It’s also great with vanilla ice cream. For a healthier option, reduce sugar or use sweeteners like honey.