Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Cinnamon bread has been a family favorite for generations, and the Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe is one of the best versions out there. This bread is soft, sweet, and swirled with a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Amish Cinnamon Bread—from its history to step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert baking tips. Plus, we’ll include a nutrition table and an ingredient breakdown to make it easy for you to follow along.

Chef’s Story: “Growing up in Pennsylvania, I remember visiting Amish markets where the air was filled with the scent of fresh bread and cinnamon. When I first made Amish Cinnamon Bread at home, the taste instantly transported me back. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, moist, and cinnamon-spiced goodness.” – Chef Daniel R.

Part 1: Introduction to Amish Cinnamon Bread

What is Amish Cinnamon Bread?

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, soft bread with a swirl of cinnamon and sugar throughout. Unlike traditional yeast breads, this one is quick and easy to make—no proofing or complicated steps required. Some versions use a starter, similar to Amish Friendship Bread, while others skip it altogether for a faster recipe.

The Origins of Amish Cinnamon Bread

This recipe traces its roots to the Amish community, known for their simple yet delicious homemade baking traditions. The Amish have perfected the art of bread-making, and this cinnamon bread is one of their most famous creations. While the original recipe requires a fermented starter, modern versions have adapted it to be more beginner-friendly.

Why This Recipe is So Popular

Amish Cinnamon Bread is loved by many because:

• It’s easy to make. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques needed.
• It’s versatile. Perfect as a breakfast bread, snack, or even a dessert.
• It has a warm, comforting flavor. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and buttery bread makes it irresistible.

Fun Fact: The Amish use traditional baking methods, often avoiding electric mixers. They believe that making bread by hand enhances its flavor and texture.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	3g
Fat	7g
Sugar	18g
Fiber	1g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Part 2: Ingredients Needed for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Before baking a perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe, gathering the right ingredients is essential. The combination of pantry staples and a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture gives this bread its signature taste and texture.

Basic Ingredients for the Bread

To make a classic Amish Cinnamon Bread, you will need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
All-purpose flour	2 cups	Creates structure
Granulated sugar	1 cup	Adds sweetness
Butter (softened)	½ cup	Provides moisture
Eggs	2 large	Binds ingredients
Buttermilk	1 cup	Enhances flavor and texture
Baking soda	1 teaspoon	Helps bread rise
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Adds flavor

Tip: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture for the Swirl

The cinnamon swirl is what makes this bread irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

Simply mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. This will be layered into the batter before baking to create that delicious swirled effect.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to make your Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe even more exciting? Try these variations:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for a crunchy texture
• Chocolate chips for a sweet twist
• Raisins for added chewiness
• Coconut flakes for a unique flavor

Part 3: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Amish Cinnamon Bread

Now, let’s bake this amazing Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe! Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best results.

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking soda. Slowly add this to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!

Tip: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense instead of soft and fluffy.

Step 2: Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
3. Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter for a marbled effect.

Swirling the cinnamon gently ensures a beautiful pattern inside the bread without mixing it too much.

Step 3: Baking and Checking for Doneness

1. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is done!
3. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tip: Allowing the bread to cool prevents it from falling apart when slicing.

Part 4: Amish Cinnamon Bread Without a Starter

Many traditional Amish Cinnamon Bread recipes use a starter, a fermented mixture of flour, sugar, and milk that adds depth of flavor. However, if you don’t have the time (or patience) to maintain a starter, you can still enjoy this delicious bread with a simplified version.

What is a Starter, and Why is It Used?

A starter is a mixture of flour, sugar, and milk that ferments over several days. It helps create a unique, tangy flavor and a soft, airy texture. The Amish often use it for Amish Friendship Bread, a slightly different but related recipe.

However, making and maintaining a starter takes time—usually 10 days—which is why many bakers prefer an easier, no-starter version of the recipe.

Fun Fact: Amish Friendship Bread is traditionally shared among friends, with the starter passed along like a chain letter.

How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread Without a Starter

Skipping the starter doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor! By adjusting the ingredients slightly, you can make a quick and easy version of this classic bread.

Here’s how:

1. Use buttermilk – It adds a tangy flavor similar to a starter.
2. Add baking soda – It helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
3. Use vanilla extract – This enhances the bread’s depth of flavor.

By following these small tweaks, you’ll still get that delicious, soft, and cinnamon-swirled goodness without waiting days for a starter to develop.

Comparing the Two Methods

Feature	With Starter	Without Starter
Time Required	10+ days	1 hour
Flavor	Tangy, slightly sweet	Sweet, rich
Texture	Light and airy	Soft and moist
Difficulty	Requires maintenance	Simple, quick

Bottom Line: If you love baking and have the patience, a starter adds a distinct flavor. But if you want a quick, foolproof recipe, the no-starter version is the way to go!

Part 5: Tips for the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread

A perfectly baked Amish Cinnamon Bread should be soft, moist, and filled with swirls of cinnamon sugar. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best loaf every time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Best Flavor

The secret to great homemade bread is in the ingredients. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Use high-quality butter – It adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Stick to real vanilla extract – Artificial vanilla won’t give the same deep taste.
• Measure flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid a dense loaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking is an art, and small mistakes can affect the final result. Here are common errors and how to fix them:

• Overmixing the batter – This makes the bread dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
• Skipping the cinnamon swirl step – The swirl adds flavor to every bite, so don’t rush it!
• Baking at the wrong temperature – Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Tip: If your bread turns out dry, try adding an extra tablespoon of butter next time for extra moisture.

How to Keep the Bread Soft and Moist

Nothing’s worse than dry bread! Here’s how to keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe soft for days:

• Store it properly – Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.
• Use a little oil – Replacing a tablespoon of butter with vegetable oil can add extra moisture.
• Don’t overbake – Check your bread at the 50-minute mark to prevent dryness.

Pro Tip: Want a bakery-style texture? Try brushing melted butter on top right after baking for extra softness.

If you love homemade pastries, you might also enjoy our Gipfeli Recipe—a delicious, flaky Swiss croissant perfect for breakfast!

Part 6: Variations of Amish Cinnamon Bread

The classic Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe is already a delicious treat, but there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste. Whether you want extra crunch, a healthier twist, or a completely new shape, these fun variations will take your cinnamon bread to the next level.

Adding Nuts, Raisins, or Chocolate Chips

If you love a little texture in your bread, try adding mix-ins before baking. Here are some tasty options:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Raisins or dried cranberries – Gives a chewy, fruity sweetness.
• Chocolate chips – Creates a rich, gooey cinnamon-chocolate blend.

Tip: Toss the nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Making a Healthier Version with Whole Wheat Flour

Want a healthier version of the Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe? Try these swaps:

• Use whole wheat flour – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce sugar – Cut back on sugar by ¼ cup without affecting the taste too much.
• Use Greek yogurt – Replace half the butter with plain Greek yogurt for extra moisture and protein.

These simple changes keep the bread delicious while making it more nutritious!

Turning It Into Muffins or Mini Loaves

If you want a grab-and-go version of Amish Cinnamon Bread, try making muffins or mini loaves instead of a full-sized loaf.

• For muffins: Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
• For mini loaves: Use mini loaf pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Tip: Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready!

Part 7: Storing and Freezing Amish Cinnamon Bread

Proper storage ensures your Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it at room temperature, in the fridge, or in the freezer.

How to Store at Room Temperature

If you plan to eat the bread within a few days, storing it at room temperature is the best option.

• Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• It stays fresh for 3-4 days.

Tip: To keep the bread extra moist, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Want to enjoy Amish Cinnamon Bread later? Freezing is a great way to keep it fresh for months.

• Wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil.
• For individual slices, wrap each one separately before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date—the bread stays fresh for up to 3 months.

How to thaw: Leave the bread at room temperature for a few hours or microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out

Reheating the bread correctly keeps it soft and flavorful. Here’s how:

• In the oven: Wrap the bread in foil and warm it at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
• In the microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 10-15 seconds.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, spread a little butter on top before reheating—it makes the bread taste freshly baked!

Part 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Many people have questions about the Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe, from baking tips to traditional methods. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Why can’t you use metal with Amish Friendship Bread?

Traditional Amish Friendship Bread (which is similar to Amish Cinnamon Bread) uses a starter that ferments over time. The acids in the starter can react with metal bowls or utensils, giving the bread a metallic taste. That’s why it’s best to use glass, plastic, or ceramic when preparing recipes that involve fermentation.

Why is it called Amish Friendship Bread?

The name comes from the tradition of sharing the bread starter with friends and family. In Amish culture, baking is a way to bring people together. When you receive a starter, you feed it, bake a loaf, and pass some of the starter along to others. This creates a chain of sharing, which is why it’s called “Friendship Bread.”

Can I make Amish Cinnamon Bread gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the flour contains xanthan gum, which helps the bread hold its structure. You may also need to add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk to prevent dryness.

How do I prevent my cinnamon swirl from sinking to the bottom?

If your cinnamon swirl sinks, it’s usually because the batter is too thin. Here’s how to fix it:

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted before mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps it thick enough to hold the swirl.
• Lightly coat the cinnamon-sugar mixture in flour before adding it. This helps it stay suspended in the batter.

Conclusion

Baking a homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a rewarding and delicious experience. With its soft, moist texture and swirls of sweet cinnamon, it’s a treat that brings warmth to any kitchen.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, try a healthier version, or experiment with fun mix-ins, this bread is guaranteed to impress family and friends. Plus, now you know the best storage, freezing, and reheating tips to keep it fresh for days!

Why not bake a loaf today and enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee?

Print