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Amish Cinnamon Bread A Deliciously Sweet and Cozy Treat

Introduction

Amish cinnamon bread is a delicious, sweet, and comforting treat that has been passed down through generations in Amish communities. With its soft, pillowy texture and swirls of cinnamon-sugar in every bite, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re baking it for your family or giving it as a thoughtful homemade gift, Amish cinnamon bread is sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Amish Cinnamon Bread

Easy to make Requires only a few simple ingredients.
Perfect for breakfast or dessert Ideal with a hot cup of coffee or as an afternoon treat.
Soft and moist The bread stays fresh for days, making it great for meal prep or gifting.
Customizable Feel free to add your favorite extras, like nuts or raisins, for a unique twist.
Great gift idea Wrap a loaf in parchment paper or a decorative bag and give it to friends and family.

Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread

This recipe uses common pantry ingredients, so you don’t need to worry about running to the store. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cinnamon bread:

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour The base of the bread, giving it a light and soft texture.
1 cup sugar Adds sweetness to the bread.
1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
2 large eggs Provide structure and moisture to the bread.
1 cup sour cream Keeps the bread moist and tender.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a rich, comforting flavor.
1/2 cup vegetable oil Contributes to the moistness of the bread.

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:

1/2 cup sugar Adds sweetness to the swirl.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon The star of the show, giving the bread its iconic flavor.

How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two standard loaf pans (8×4-inch) or line them with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

2 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and fully combined. The sour cream gives the bread a rich, moist texture, so make sure to mix the ingredients well.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bread dense. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, but that’s okay.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix:

1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

This mixture will create the iconic cinnamon swirl inside the bread.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar

Spoon a layer of batter into each loaf pan, about one-third of the total batter. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Repeat the layers, adding another third of the batter followed by more cinnamon-sugar. Finish with the remaining batter on top.

Step 7: Swirl the Cinnamon-Sugar

Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture through the batter to create the classic spiral pattern. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want distinct swirls, not a completely mixed batter.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pans in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. If the tops of the loaves are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil in the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Pro Tips for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread

Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can cause the bread to become dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the bread a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Let the bread cool: Allow the bread to cool before slicing so that the cinnamon-sugar mixture has time to set properly.
Add nuts or raisins: If you love a little extra texture, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the batter.
Use full-fat sour cream: For the best results, use full-fat sour cream instead of low-fat or fat-free. It helps keep the bread moist and tender.

Serving Suggestions

With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: Amish cinnamon bread pairs beautifully with your favorite hot drink.
Topped with Butter: Spread a little butter on a warm slice of bread for extra richness.
As a Gift: Wrap a loaf in parchment paper and twine for a thoughtful homemade gift.
For Breakfast or Dessert: Whether you’re starting your day or enjoying a sweet treat after dinner, Amish cinnamon bread is the perfect choice.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

How to Store Amish Cinnamon Bread

Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. The bread will stay moist and flavorful.

Freezing Amish Cinnamon Bread

If you want to enjoy the bread later, Amish cinnamon bread freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.

How to Reheat Amish Cinnamon Bread

To reheat, slice the bread and place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream?

Yes, buttermilk can be used as a substitute for sour cream. It will give the bread a slightly tangy flavor and still keep it moist.

2. Can I make this bread without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with a suitable egg substitute like applesauce or mashed banana. You may need to experiment with the amount, but about 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg should work well.

3. How can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to ensure the bread holds together.

4. Can I make this bread in a Bundt pan?

Yes, you can bake this bread in a Bundt pan or any other shaped pan you prefer. Just adjust the baking time as needed and check for doneness with a toothpick.

5. Can I add other spices?

Yes, you can add a variety of spices to customize the flavor. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper, warmer flavor.