Make Authentic Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe at Home
The smell of cinnamon bread baking is like a trip back to simpler days. As you start making this Amish-style bread, imagine yourself in the quiet countryside. There, each loaf is made with care, following recipes passed down for years.
This Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is easy to make. It’s a quick version of the famous Amish friendship bread. You’ll get two loaves: one for you and one to share. It’s a sweet treat that shows the Amish love for community.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe makes two loaves: one to keep and one to give
- Simplified quick-bread version of Amish friendship bread, no yeast or sourdough starter required
- Sweet, zesty cinnamon-flavored bread with a traditional Amish heritage
- Allows for easier sharing while maintaining the essence of Amish baking
- Offers a nostalgic taste of simpler times and cherished community traditions
Understanding the Heritage of Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish Cinnamon Bread comes from the deep traditions of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. It shows the simplicity and community values of Amish life. This quick bread version brings the same warm flavors as the classic, but it’s faster to make.
Origins in Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine
The Amish are known for their love of old traditions and tasty baked goods. Amish Cinnamon Bread is a key part of their culinary history. It’s inspired by recipes that have been loved for generations in Pennsylvania Dutch culture.
Traditional Amish Baking Values
This recipe is all about Amish values like simplicity and sharing. It uses simple, healthy ingredients to make food that’s good for you. Sharing the bread with others shows the Amish love for community and kindness.
Difference Between Friendship Bread and Quick Bread
The classic Amish Friendship Bread takes 10 days to make. But this quick bread version has the same great taste in less time. It’s perfect for today’s busy cooks who want to enjoy Amish baking traditions.
“The Amish way of life is a testament to the power of simplicity, community, and the joy found in the creation of honest, homemade foods.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
To make authentic Amish cinnamon swirl bread at home, you need the right ingredients. These elements give the bread its unique taste and soft texture:
- Cake flour (or all-purpose flour) for a soft, tender crumb
- Granulated sugar to sweeten the dough
- Ground cinnamon, preferably Saigon cinnamon, for a spicier taste
- Eggs to provide structure and richness
- Milk (or buttermilk) for moisture and tang
- Vegetable oil instead of butter for a moister bread
- Baking powder and baking soda to ensure the perfect rise
- Salt to balance the sweetness
- Vanilla extract for fragrance and flavor
Raisins are a favorite in Amish kitchens, adding chewy sweetness to the cinnamon swirl bread. You’ll need 1½ cups of raisins. Soak them in hot water, then drain before adding to the dough.
For a homemade buttermilk substitute, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using it in the recipe.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cake flour (or all-purpose flour) | 1 1/4 cups, plus 4 cups more |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 5 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk (or buttermilk) | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Raisins (optional) | 1 1/2 cups |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious cinnamon swirl bread. It will taste just like the Amish version.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To bake delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread at home, you need some basic tools. First, get a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan. This size ensures your bread bakes evenly. You’ll also need mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons to measure the ingredients accurately.
Essential Baking Tools
- 9×5 inch loaf pans
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Whisk for incorporating air into the batter
Optional Equipment for Better Results
Some optional tools can make baking easier. An electric mixer helps mix ingredients quickly and smoothly. A bread knife is useful for slicing the cooled loaf.
- Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
- Bread knife
- Parchment paper
Pan Preparation Tips
Preparing your pans is key, especially with the recipe’s high sugar content. Grease the pans well with butter or non-stick spray. For easier loaf removal, line the pans with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
| Baking Equipment | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Loaf Pans | 9×5 inch non-stick or greased pans |
| Parchment Paper | Line pans for easy release |
| Mixing Bowls | Various sizes for measuring and mixing |
| Measuring Tools | Cups, spoons, and a scale for accuracy |
| Utensils | Wooden spoon, whisk, and electric mixer |
With the right baking equipment and prepared loaf pans, you’re ready to make perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread in your kitchen.
The Science Behind Using Buttermilk in Sweet Breads
Buttermilk is a secret ingredient in baking moist, tender sweet breads. It adds a tangy flavor and is key to bread baking science.
The acidity in buttermilk is its magic. It reacts with baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles. This makes the bread rise and become soft and airy. The acidity also tenderizes gluten strands, making the crumb more tender.
Buttermilk’s high moisture content also makes the bread moist. The lactic acid in it prevents the bread from drying out. This ensures the bread stays moist and flavorful.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with a cup of regular milk. This trick works well in sweet bread recipes.
“Buttermilk is the secret weapon for bakers who want to create moist, tender, and flavorful sweet breads.”
So, when baking with buttermilk, remember its science. It can take your homemade sweet breads to new levels of deliciousness.
Step-by-Step Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Enjoy the amazing smell and taste of homemade bread with this Amish cinnamon roll bread recipe. It’s easy to make and will impress everyone.
Preparing the Batter
Start by mixing 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix well. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a bit of salt.
Then, add the dry ingredients and 3/4 cup of milk to the butter mix, mixing until just combined. Add 1/4 cup of sour cream to make the bread moist and tender.
Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
Mix 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This makes the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan and preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Repeat the layers, pouring the remaining batter and sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon-sugar.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar through the batter, creating a beautiful spiral effect.
Baking Instructions
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the batter for extra moisture and flavor. Bake the cinnamon roll bread for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
After baking, use the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon-sugar mixture to sprinkle on top. Let the Amish cinnamon roll bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Crumb
Baking the perfect Amish cinnamon bread is all about the texture and crumb. Here are some baking tips to help you get it right:
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This makes mixing easier and the batter lighter.
- Don’t overmix the batter. This can make the bread dense and tough. Just mix until everything is well combined.
- The crackly top crust is a must for this bread. Try not to open the oven door too often to keep the crust from falling.
- Check the bread with a toothpick. It should come out with moist crumbs. If the top gets too brown, cover it with foil.
- The bread’s tenderness and moisture come from its high sugar content. But you can cut down on sugar if you want a less sweet bread.
By following these baking tips, you’ll make a delicious Amish cinnamon bread with the perfect texture and crumb.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines
After baking your Amish cinnamon bread, keeping it fresh is key. We’ll look at the best ways to store bread and freeze bread. This way, your homemade treat will stay delicious.
Room Temperature Storage
For a few days, store your Amish cinnamon bread at room temperature. Use an airtight container to keep it soft and moist. This prevents the bread from drying out.
Freezing Methods
- Let the bread cool down completely before freezing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Put the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Sealed well, your bread can stay frozen for 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating
Ready to enjoy your frozen bread? Here are a few ways to thaw and reheat:
- Thaw the bread at room temperature for hours or overnight.
- Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- To reheat the whole loaf, bake it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
By using these bread storage and freezing bread tips, you can enjoy the Amish cinnamon bread flavor for longer.
Creative Serving Suggestions and Variations
Amish cinnamon bread is a versatile treat. Serve it warm with creamy butter for a delightful treat. Or, make French toast with vanilla and cinnamon for a special breakfast.
Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch. Raisins or dried fruits add sweetness. For a sweet touch, drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
It’s great as a dessert with fruit preserves, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream. Enjoy it with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm Bread with Butter | Enjoy the bread straight from the oven with a pat of creamy butter. |
| French Toast | Use the bread to make decadent French toast, adding a touch of vanilla and cinnamon to the egg mixture. |
| Cinnamon Bread Pudding | Cubed cinnamon bread can be used as the base for a rich, custard-like bread pudding. |
| Cinnamon Bread Croutons | Dice the bread and toss with butter, cinnamon, and sugar for a crunchy topping on salads or soups. |
There are endless ways to enjoy Amish cinnamon bread. Whether plain or with toppings, it’s a comforting treat that brings Amish tradition home.
Gifting and Sharing Traditions
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a great homemade gift that shows the Amish tradition of sharing. You can wrap it in a kitchen towel or put it in a box. It’s a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or neighbors.
This recipe makes two loaves, so you can enjoy one and share the other. It’s a way to show community values, just like the Amish do.
For over 20 years, neighbors have shared Amish Cinnamon Bread as a welcome gift. Making the starter involves a 10-day process with daily steps. It shows the care and dedication in these homemade gifts.
Sharing Amish Cinnamon Bread is a way to connect with your community. It’s a heartfelt gift that honors Amish food culture. Its simplicity and taste make it a tradition that brings people together.
| Amish Friendship Bread Starter Ingredients | Amish Friendship Bread Recipe Ingredients |
|---|---|
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The Amish Friendship Bread tradition is about sharing the bread and starter. It’s a way to connect with friends. There are specific steps to follow during the 10-day cycle.
“The recipe allows for making multiple loaves, generating 8 large loaves and multiple mini loaves from four batches. A suggestion is made to use disposable pans for baking multiple loaves, making them easy to gift to friends and neighbors.”
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a wonderful way to share a piece of Amish food culture with others. So, get ready to bake and start a tradition of homemade gifts. It will bring joy and warmth to your community.
Conclusion
The Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe brings warmth and authenticity of Amish baking to your kitchen. It’s easy to follow, making it perfect for both experienced and novice bakers. You’ll create a moist, flavorful loaf that truly captures the essence of Amish culinary heritage.
Using buttermilk and a delectable cinnamon swirl, every step of this recipe is designed for a satisfying homemade bread experience. By following the guidance, you’ll achieve the perfect texture and crumb. This makes the amish cinnamon bread recipe a true standout.
Embrace the joy of baking and sharing this homemade bread with your loved ones. The Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless delight. It fills your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goodness, creating cherished memories and traditions for generations to come.
