Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish cinnamon bread recipe is a comforting sweet loaf that delivers a soothing aroma and a moist crumb. It belongs to a group of bread recipes often called “quick bread,” meaning you can skip the usual wait time that comes with yeast. Bakers love this bread for its light texture and gentle swirl of cinnamon sugar. Many people also enjoy amish friendship bread, which uses a starter for extra flavor. You can choose either path depending on your preference.

This new recipe is easy to make and can be baked as a bread with no yeast if you want a faster method. Some bakers add buttermilk for more tenderness, while others rely on simple pantry items like flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. The final result is a loaf that stays soft even days after you bake it. Whether you keep it classic or tweak it with minor changes, you will find the process satisfying.

In the sections that follow, you’ll learn the key benefits of amish cinnamon bread recipe, gather your ingredients, and discover how to create a delicious loaf step by step. You’ll also find handy tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions. 

2. Key Benefits of Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish cinnamon bread recipe delivers a warm, homey taste that many find irresistible. Its balance of sweetness and subtle spice makes each slice comforting, whether enjoyed in the morning or as a sweet treat later in the day. Here are a few key reasons people love this loaf:

  1. Simple and Flexible
    This bread can be prepared with or without yeast. If you want a quick bread approach, skip the yeast and rely on basic pantry items like flour and baking soda. For those who enjoy working with a starter, you can still get a delicious crumb by using an amish friendship bread method. Whichever path you take, this recipe is easy to make, and you can adjust ingredients based on your preferences.
  2. Moist Crumb and Light Texture
    Buttermilk is one of the go-to ingredients for creating a loaf that stays soft. When combined with the right mixing technique, this tangy liquid helps keep each slice tender. Even days after baking, the bread usually remains moist, making it a popular choice for families who like to have homemade treats on hand.
  3. Delightful Cinnamon Swirl
    One of the biggest appeals is the swirl of cinnamon sugar running through the bread. This swirl ensures every slice bursts with flavor. When you use a butter knife to create those ribbons of spice, you add both taste and visual appeal. The swirl is part of the reason many consider this a sweet bread that doubles as a simple dessert.
  4. Great for Sharing
    Whether you’re making two loaves or only one, amish cinnamon bread recipe often becomes a gift for friends, neighbors, or family. If you follow a starter-based amish friendship bread tradition, you can pass along part of your starter to others so they can create their own loaf. It’s a nice way to spread the joy of fresh baking.

By focusing on these benefits, you’ll see why this new recipe has become a favorite. Each loaf offers a soothing aroma, a moist crumb, and a swirl of cinnamon that brightens every bite.

3. Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

A variety of baking ingredients for Amish cinnamon bread recipe, including flour, sugar, butter, eggs, buttermilk, and cinnamon, neatly arranged on a wooden surface.
Essential items for crafting a comforting loaf of Amish cinnamon bread.

Amish cinnamon bread recipe relies on simple elements that come together to create a tender crumb and a pleasant swirl of cinnamon-sugar. These ingredients also make it easy to adjust the recipe, whether you choose a quick bread method or add yeast and a starter for extra flavor. Below is a detailed list, along with notes on how each component supports this amish cinnamon bread recipe.

  1. All-Purpose Flour
    • Forms the backbone of the loaf. If you want a lighter crumb, sift the flour beforehand.
    • Helps maintain structure, giving you a steady rise without heavy kneading.
  2. Baking Soda
    • Acts as a leavening agent in a bread with no yeast, making it quick and simple.
    • Ensures your loaf remains airy and light.
  3. Buttermilk
    • Adds moisture that keeps the loaf soft.
    • Contributes a slight tang, especially helpful for a reliable, fluffy texture.
  4. Butter and Sugar
    • Cream these together to begin building the batter.
    • Creates a sweet, tender foundation for easy amish cinnamon bread.
  5. Ground Cinnamon
    • Provides the warm cinnamon flavor that defines this bread.
    • Mix a portion with sugar to create a cinnamon-sugar blend or swirl.
  6. Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
    • Often sprinkled between layers of batter and on top for flavor.
    • Encourages a signature swirl when you use a butter knife to combine it with the batter.
  7. Eggs and Salt
    • Standard in most bread recipes.
    • The eggs bind the batter, while salt balances the sweetness.
  8. Optional Yeast or Starter
    • If you want an amish friendship bread style, include a sourdough or similar starter.
    • Yeast can change the crumb if you don’t mind a brief rise time.
  9. Loaf Pan
    • A greased or lined pan is key. A standard-size pan works well for this recipe, but you can make two loaves if you double the ingredients.

These elements join together to form a great recipe that highlights the appeal of amish bread. Whether you consider this a sweet bread for dessert or a quick bread for casual snacking, you’ll see how each ingredient plays a role in building flavor and texture. Keep them handy, along with a mixer if you prefer, and you’ll be ready to create a moist loaf that many consider a classic treat.

4. How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

A person swirling cinnamon sugar into bread batter in a loaf pan, with bowls of ingredients on a wooden counter.
Layering and swirling the batter to create a warm, sweet loaf with a cinnamon-sugar ribbon.

Baking amish cinnamon bread at home can be straightforward, especially if you follow each step carefully. This process combines simple methods found in quick bread recipes with a flavorful swirl of cinnamon sugar. Below, you’ll see how to prepare the batter, layer it for that signature cinnamon swirl, and bake it to perfection. The result is a loaf that pleases both casual snackers and anyone who appreciates delicious amish recipes.

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

  1. Gather All Ingredients
    Place flour, baking soda, buttermilk, ground cinnamon, butter, sugar, and eggs on your counter. If you’re using yeast or a starter, have that ready too. Make sure your supplies measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a mixer—are within reach.
  2. Preheat the Oven
    Set the oven to 350°F. A fully heated oven helps the batter rise evenly, giving you a light and fluffy crumb. Some people like to test their oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s accurate before they bake in the preheated oven.
  3. Prepare Your Loaf Pan
    Grease or line a standard loaf pan so the bread doesn’t stick. If you plan to make two loaves, have a second prepared loaf pan on standby. It’s helpful to coat the inside with a thin layer of butter, then lightly dust it with flour.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  1. Mix Flour and Baking Soda
    In a medium bowl, stir the flour together with the baking soda and a pinch of salt. This blend represents your dry ingredients, which help the bread achieve the right lift without requiring a traditional knead.
  2. Add Optional Spices
    If you prefer a bit more spice, sprinkle a small dash of nutmeg or allspice into the flour mixture. This can enhance the cinnamon flavor, though the basic version stays true to a traditional amish cinnamon bread recipe.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

  1. Use a Mixer or Stand Mixer
    In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Aim for a smooth, fluffy texture that forms the base of this great recipe. This step traps air in the mixture, which leads to a softer crumb once baked.
  2. Add the Eggs
    Crack in the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Keep the mixer on a moderate speed to maintain an airy consistency.
  3. Incorporate Buttermilk
    Pour in the buttermilk slowly and continue mixing. This liquid adds moisture, ensuring that your loaf remains tender and moist after baking. If you follow a bread with no yeast approach, the buttermilk reacts nicely with baking soda for a well-risen loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Alternate Dry and Wet
    Add half of the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, then mix gently. Pour in a bit more buttermilk if needed. Stir in the remaining dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tougher texture.
  2. Check Consistency
    The batter should appear thick yet spreadable. If it seems too dense, mix in a spoonful or two of additional buttermilk or milk. If it’s runny, sprinkle a little more flour until it reaches a consistency that can hold its shape in the pan.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl the Cinnamon Sugar

  1. Fill Half of the Batter
    Scoop roughly half of the batter into the greased pan, then use a spatula to spread and level it.
  2. Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
    In a small bowl, mix ground cinnamon with granulated sugar to form a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Scatter a portion of this mixture on top of the batter. This layering provides the loaf with bursts of sweet spice once baked.
  3. Add Remaining Batter
    Spoon the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Gently level the top so the cinnamon sugar is concealed, but you’ll still swirl it in the next step.
  4. Use a Butter Knife for the Swirl
    To create the cinnamon swirl, use a butter knife to make figure-eight motions through the top of the batter. This step blends the cinnamon sugar into a pleasant pattern. Swirl the cinnamon sugar gently so you don’t overmix it into a single layer.

Step 6: Bake in the Preheated Oven

  1. Place Pan in the Oven
    Slide your loaf pan onto the middle rack. If you’re making two loaves, ensure there’s enough space around each pan for even heat distribution.
  2. Check for Doneness
    Bake for about 45-50 minutes. A good rule is to keep an eye on the color of the top. When it turns golden-brown, test the center by inserting a toothpick. If the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
  3. Cool in the Pan
    Take the pan out and let the loaf sit for about ten minutes to set its shape. This helps prevent it from crumbling when you remove it from the pan. Carefully flip it onto a wire rack afterward to finish cooling.

Step 7: Optional Yeast or Starter Variations

  1. Starter Needed
    If you choose a sourdough starter or an amish friendship bread starter, you might let the batter rest briefly. Some recipes call for a short rise if yeast is included, though this is not always required for a simple quick bread method.
  2. Adjust the Batter
    With a starter or yeast, you might reduce or skip the baking soda. Follow any specific guidelines from your starter recipe, but still swirl the cinnamon sugar for flavor.
  3. Extended Flavor
    Yeast or a sourdough starter can add a slightly tangy taste. This approach also aligns with traditional amish bread practices if you want a more authentic crumb.

Step 8: Tips for the Best Results

  • Avoid Overmixing
    Stir gently once you add the flour. Overworking the batter can lead to a loaf that’s dense rather than light and fluffy.
  • Watch the Timing
    If you see the top browning too much before the center finishes baking, loosely cover the pan with foil. This shield keeps the surface from overcooking.
  • Try Muffin Portions
    If you want individual servings, divide the batter among a muffin tin. You’ll swirl the cinnamon sugar into each muffin cup for a smaller version of this cinnamon swirl delight.
  • Store It Properly
    Once cool, wrap the loaf and keep it in an airtight container so it doesn’t dry out. If you freeze leftovers, protect them from freezer burn by using heavy-duty freezer bags or an extra layer of plastic wrap.

5. Pro Tips and Variations for Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

There are many ways to put your own spin on amish cinnamon bread while keeping the process straightforward. Whether you’re looking for a no-knead sweet bread or prefer something more traditional, these suggestions can help you get the most out of each loaf.

  1. Adjust the Sweetness
    • If you prefer a sweeter loaf, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the batter. For a milder taste, reduce it slightly. The swirl of cinnamon sugar will still deliver a pleasant flavor, so feel free to experiment.
  2. Try Different Flours
    • All-purpose flour remains the standard for a soft crumb, but you could replace a portion with whole wheat flour for more texture. Just note that this might change the final loaf’s moisture and rise. If you do so, keep a bit of extra buttermilk on hand to maintain a tender bite.
  3. Play with Spices
    • Cinnamon is central to this bread’s appeal, but you might add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a subtle twist. Blend these into the cinnamon-sugar mixture or the dry ingredients before combining them with the wet mixture.
  4. Make Two Loaves
    • If you love this recipe and want to share, simply double your ingredient amounts. Prepare two loaf pans and split the batter evenly. You can give one loaf as a gift or freeze the extra for later to avoid the risk of freezer burn.
  5. Explore Yeast and Starters
    • For those who want an amish friendship bread approach, introduce a sourdough starter or yeast. You may need to let the batter rest briefly to develop that tangy depth. Make sure you still include the cinnamon swirl by layering and using a butter knife to achieve a marbled pattern.
  6. Create Muffins
    • Turn your bread into muffins by spooning the batter into muffin cups. Swirl in a small spoonful of cinnamon sugar on top of each portion. Cut the baking time to around 20 minutes, though ovens differ, so keep an eye out for a toothpick that comes out clean.
  7. Extra Toppings
    • Some bakers enjoy streusel toppings made from flour, butter, and more sugar. You could also sprinkle chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar layer for an unexpected surprise in every slice.
  8. Storage Tips
    • Wrap leftover slices in plastic or foil and store them in an airtight container. If you need them to last longer, freeze them right away. Thaw at room temperature or toast them lightly for a quick snack.

By trying these ideas, you’ll see that amish cinnamon bread can be as flexible as you want it to be. It remains a quick bread at heart—particularly if you skip the yeast—yet it can easily take on new flavors or textures. Enjoy experimenting with different approaches to discover the version that resonates best with you.

6. Serving Suggestions for Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish cinnamon bread suits many occasions, from a casual breakfast to a comforting after-dinner treat. Its sweet layer of cinnamon sugar and moist crumb make it both versatile and crowd-pleasing. Below are a few simple ways to enjoy your freshly baked loaf:

  1. Warm Slices with Butter
    • Toast or lightly reheat slices in the oven, then add a thin layer of butter. This step warms up the cinnamon sugar swirl and enhances the overall sweetness.
  2. Coffee or Tea Companion
    • Pair it with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The gentle spice of the bread works well with a hot drink, turning a quick snack into a relaxed break.
  3. Brunch Addition
    • Serve this loaf alongside eggs, fruit, or other savory dishes for a satisfying brunch spread. Cut it into neat slices and place them on a platter so guests can help themselves.
  4. Dessert Twist
    • Dress it up by drizzling a simple powdered sugar glaze across the top. This method transforms the bread into a sweet dessert that stands out at family meals or potlucks.
  5. Make it a Gift
    • Package the bread in a decorative wrap or a sturdy container if you plan to share it with a friend. Giving away a loaf as part of amish friendship traditions can spread a sense of warmth and connection.
  6. Freezer Tips
    • If you want to save slices for later, wrap each one and store them in an airtight container to guard against freezer burn. Thaw them when you need a quick treat or breakfast option.

By exploring these serving styles, you’ll find that amish cinnamon bread fits seamlessly into everyday life. Whether you slice it for a morning meal, offer it as a dessert, or share it as a token of friendship, the soft crumb and inviting flavor stand out every time.

7. Conclusion

Amish cinnamon bread is a sweet, comforting treat. Its soft crumb comes from a quick bread batter and a swirl of cinnamon sugar. You won’t need to knead the dough, so it’s beginner-friendly.

If you want a classic version, skip the yeast. For a more traditional approach, include a starter. In both cases, the loaf will turn out light, fluffy, and fragrant. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes to keep it moist, then slice and enjoy.

Feel free to experiment with toppings, fillings, or baking it in different pans. You can also make two loaves and share one an idea that captures the caring spirit behind amish friendship bread. Ultimately, this recipe gives you a tasty, homemade loaf that’s hard to resist any time of day.

amish cinnamon bread recipe wp

Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

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Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe: Enjoy a moist swirl of cinnamon sugar in every slice with this easy quick bread, perfect for sharing and snacking.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

All-Purpose Flour

  • Forms the backbone of the loaf. If you want a lighter crumb sift the flour beforehand.
  • Helps maintain structure giving you a steady rise without heavy kneading.

Baking Soda

  • Acts as a leavening agent in a bread with no yeast making it quick and simple.
  • Ensures your loaf remains airy and light.

Buttermilk

  • Adds moisture that keeps the loaf soft.
  • Contributes a slight tang especially helpful for a reliable, fluffy texture.

Butter and Sugar

  • Cream these together to begin building the batter.
  • Creates a sweet tender foundation for easy amish cinnamon bread.

Ground Cinnamon

  • Provides the warm cinnamon flavor that defines this bread.
  • Mix a portion with sugar to create a cinnamon-sugar blend or swirl.

Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

  • Often sprinkled between layers of batter and on top for flavor.
  • Encourages a signature swirl when you use a butter knife to combine it with the batter.

Eggs and Salt

  • Standard in most bread recipes.
  • The eggs bind the batter while salt balances the sweetness.

Optional Yeast or Starter

  • If you want an amish friendship bread style include a sourdough or similar starter.
  • Yeast can change the crumb if you don’t mind a brief rise time.

Loaf Pan

  • A greased or lined pan is key. A standard-size pan works well for this recipe but you can make two loaves if you double the ingredients.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

  • Gather All Ingredients
  • Place flour, baking soda, buttermilk, ground cinnamon, butter, sugar, and eggs on your counter. If you’re using yeast or a starter, have that ready too. Make sure your supplies measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a mixer—are within reach.
  • Preheat the Oven
  • Set the oven to 350°F. A fully heated oven helps the batter rise evenly, giving you a light and fluffy crumb. Some people like to test their oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s accurate before they bake in the preheated oven.
  • Prepare Your Loaf Pan
  • Grease or line a standard loaf pan so the bread doesn’t stick. If you plan to make two loaves, have a second prepared loaf pan on standby. It’s helpful to coat the inside with a thin layer of butter, then lightly dust it with flour.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  • Mix Flour and Baking Soda
  • In a medium bowl, stir the flour together with the baking soda and a pinch of salt. This blend represents your dry ingredients, which help the bread achieve the right lift without requiring a traditional knead.
  • Add Optional Spices
  • If you prefer a bit more spice, sprinkle a small dash of nutmeg or allspice into the flour mixture. This can enhance the cinnamon flavor, though the basic version stays true to a traditional amish cinnamon bread recipe.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

  • Use a Mixer or Stand Mixer
  • In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Aim for a smooth, fluffy texture that forms the base of this great recipe. This step traps air in the mixture, which leads to a softer crumb once baked.
  • Add the Eggs
  • Crack in the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Keep the mixer on a moderate speed to maintain an airy consistency.
  • Incorporate Buttermilk
  • Pour in the buttermilk slowly and continue mixing. This liquid adds moisture, ensuring that your loaf remains tender and moist after baking. If you follow a bread with no yeast approach, the buttermilk reacts nicely with baking soda for a well-risen loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Alternate Dry and Wet
  • Add half of the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, then mix gently. Pour in a bit more buttermilk if needed. Stir in the remaining dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tougher texture.
  • Check Consistency
  • The batter should appear thick yet spreadable. If it seems too dense, mix in a spoonful or two of additional buttermilk or milk. If it’s runny, sprinkle a little more flour until it reaches a consistency that can hold its shape in the pan.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl the Cinnamon Sugar

  • Fill Half of the Batter
  • Scoop roughly half of the batter into the greased pan, then use a spatula to spread and level it.
  • Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
  • In a small bowl, mix ground cinnamon with granulated sugar to form a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Scatter a portion of this mixture on top of the batter. This layering provides the loaf with bursts of sweet spice once baked.
  • Add Remaining Batter
  • Spoon the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Gently level the top so the cinnamon sugar is concealed, but you’ll still swirl it in the next step.
  • Use a Butter Knife for the Swirl
  • To create the cinnamon swirl, use a butter knife to make figure-eight motions through the top of the batter. This step blends the cinnamon sugar into a pleasant pattern. Swirl the cinnamon sugar gently so you don’t overmix it into a single layer.

Step 6: Bake in the Preheated Oven

  • Place Pan in the Oven
  • Slide your loaf pan onto the middle rack. If you’re making two loaves, ensure there’s enough space around each pan for even heat distribution.
  • Check for Doneness
  • Bake for about 45-50 minutes. A good rule is to keep an eye on the color of the top. When it turns golden-brown, test the center by inserting a toothpick. If the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
  • Cool in the Pan
  • Take the pan out and let the loaf sit for about ten minutes to set its shape. This helps prevent it from crumbling when you remove it from the pan. Carefully flip it onto a wire rack afterward to finish cooling.

Step 7: Optional Yeast or Starter Variations

  • Starter Needed
  • If you choose a sourdough starter or an amish friendship bread starter, you might let the batter rest briefly. Some recipes call for a short rise if yeast is included, though this is not always required for a simple quick bread method.
  • Adjust the Batter
  • With a starter or yeast, you might reduce or skip the baking soda. Follow any specific guidelines from your starter recipe, but still swirl the cinnamon sugar for flavor.
  • Extended Flavor
  • Yeast or a sourdough starter can add a slightly tangy taste. This approach also aligns with traditional amish bread practices if you want a more authentic crumb.

Step 8: Tips for the Best Results

  • Avoid Overmixing
  • Stir gently once you add the flour. Overworking the batter can lead to a loaf that’s dense rather than light and fluffy.
  • Watch the Timing
  • If you see the top browning too much before the center finishes baking, loosely cover the pan with foil. This shield keeps the surface from overcooking.
  • Try Muffin Portions
  • If you want individual servings, divide the batter among a muffin tin. You’ll swirl the cinnamon sugar into each muffin cup for a smaller version of this cinnamon swirl delight.
  • Store It Properly
  • Once cool, wrap the loaf and keep it in an airtight container so it doesn’t dry out. If you freeze leftovers, protect them from freezer burn by using heavy-duty freezer bags or an extra layer of plastic wrap.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~220
  • Total Fat: ~9 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30 g
  • Protein: ~4 g
  • Sodium: ~220 mg
  • Sugar: ~15 g
Keyword Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe

8. FAQs

Why is it called Amish Friendship Bread?

It’s known as amish friendship bread because it’s shared among friends and family. You pass on part of the starter so others can bake their own loaf. This sharing approach fits with a tradition of caring and hospitality seen in many amish recipes.

Do you have to wait 10 days to bake Amish Friendship Bread?

The classic method often calls for a 10-day waiting period. During this waiting period, the starter ferments and becomes tangy. However, some recipes use a shortcut or an already active starter, so you may bake sooner if desired.

Should Amish Friendship Bread starter be refrigerated?

Refrigeration isn’t always mandatory, but it slows fermentation. If you’d like to pause feeding your starter, keeping it in the fridge can help. Allow the starter to reach room temperature and feed it, giving it the boost it needs to become bubbly again.

How do I make my starter more bubbly?

Give it regular feedings using equal amounts of flour and water. Stir well and store it where the temperature is comfortable. If your starter still isn’t frothy, you can add a small pinch of sugar. This extra food often boosts the natural yeast, helping the starter bubble more.

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