Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish Cinnamon Bread: A Deliciously Sweet Tradition
When you think of comfort food, nothing quite matches the warmth of homemade bread wafting through your kitchen. Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of cinnamon and the moisture of buttermilk, creating that perfect blend of sweetness and spice. This easy-to-follow recipe is a wonderful option for family breakfasts, cozy afternoon snacks, or even as a delightful homemade gift. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this quick bread is simple enough for anyone to master, making it an instant favorite in any household.
"The moment I bit into a slice of this cinnamon bread, I was transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s moist, flavorful, and simply unbeatable!"
Why You Should Delight in This Recipe
What makes Amish Cinnamon Bread stand out? For one, it’s incredibly budget-friendly—using common pantry staples. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to festive gatherings. The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a comforting aroma that fills your home, making it a fantastic way to welcome guests or enjoy an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
Moreover, it’s a family-approved recipe. Kids love the sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness, and you might even find them sneaking pieces before dinner! Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that allows you to engage your kids in the kitchen, creating sweet memories while baking.
Creating Magic: How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
This recipe comes together in a series of simple steps, making it manageable even for novice bakers. Here’s what to expect: you’ll start by creaming butter and sugars, then incorporate wet ingredients, followed by gently mixing in the dry components. Finally, you’ll layer flavors with a scrumptious cinnamon sugar mix before baking it to golden perfection. Ready to whip up a loaf of goodness?
Gather These Ingredients
To create this delightful bread, you’ll need:
- ½ cup softened salted butter
- 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 (for the cinnamon sugar topping)
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (to drizzle on top)
Feel free to substitute whole milk or yogurt for buttermilk, and use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the saltiness!
Step-by-Step Directions to Create Your Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan with butter or oil.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth.
- Add in the granulated and brown sugars, mixing on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Sift together the flour and baking soda, then fold these dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; use a silicone spatula to ensure no large lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, mix together ⅓ cup sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon.
- Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the first half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it, then gently swirl it with a butter knife.
- Spread the remaining batter evenly on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Swirl once more to combine.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-70 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
The Best Ways to Enjoy Your Amish Cinnamon Bread
This bread shines on its own but can be deliciously paired with various accompaniments. Serve it warm with a dollop of butter, or slather it with cream cheese for a decadent treat. Pair slices with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. It also makes a fantastic base for French toast—just dip the slices in an egg and milk mixture and cook on the skillet until golden.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw slices in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat individual pieces in a microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again.
Pro Chef Tips for Success
Here are some simple yet effective tips to enhance this recipe:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal mixing—this helps create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the ingredients to prevent your bread from becoming tough.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary. Start checking at the 50-minute mark and use a toothpick to test for doneness.
- Adding Nuts or Dried Fruit: For an extra texture, toss in walnuts or raisins when mixing the batter.
Creative Twists to Try
Feel adventurous? Here are some fun variations on this classic recipe:
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent touch.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Incorporate 1 cup of pumpkin puree and substitute 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for the cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts to give your bread a crunchy texture.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Amish Cinnamon Bread?
The prep time takes about 15-20 minutes, while baking will range from 50-70 minutes depending on your oven.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works wonderfully for this recipe, giving you a soft, moist bread texture.
How do I store my leftover Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! You can substitute some of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup, and use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Indulge in the heartwarming tradition of baking with this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe. Its allure lies not just in its taste but in the joyful experiences that come with baking. Enjoy the process as much as the delicious outcome—happy baking!
Amish Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan with butter or oil.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth.
- Add in the granulated and brown sugars, mixing on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, mixing until well combined.
- Sift together the flour and baking soda, then gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, mix together ⅓ cup sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon.
- Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it and swirl with a butter knife.
- Spread the remaining batter evenly on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Swirl again to combine.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
