Amish cinnamon bread recipe – a sweet treat.
Amish cinnamon bread recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, sweet loaf, the aroma of cinnamon wafting up to greet you. This delightful treat is not only a pleasure to enjoy, but it’s also incredibly easy to make.
You don’t need to be an experienced baker to create this moist and tender delight, with its beautiful cinnamon sugar swirl. The best part? It’s ready in no time, making it perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting homemade treat.
This article will guide you through the simple process, from ingredients to serving suggestions, so you can enjoy this fabulous sweet treat with your loved ones.
The Story Behind Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish cinnamon bread has become a beloved treat for many, but its origins and characteristics are often misunderstood. This sweet bread is a quick bread recipe that you can make and bake immediately, making it a convenient dessert option.
What Makes This Bread Special
What sets Amish cinnamon bread apart is its simplicity and the immediate gratification it offers. Unlike other bread recipes that require lengthy preparation or maintenance, this bread can be mixed and baked in a short amount of time. The result is a deliciously sweet and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Amish Cinnamon Bread vs. Amish Friendship Bread
Many people confuse Amish cinnamon bread with Amish friendship bread, but they are distinct. Amish friendship bread relies on a sourdough starter that needs regular feeding, whereas Amish cinnamon bread is a straightforward quick bread recipe. The two also differ in sweetness and texture, with Amish cinnamon bread being sweeter and having a different flavor profile.
| Bread Type | Preparation Method | Sweetness Level |
|---|---|---|
| Amish Cinnamon Bread | Quick bread, immediate baking | Sweet |
| Amish Friendship Bread | Sourdough starter, requires maintenance | Less sweet |
Ingredients You’ll Need
The foundation of a great Amish cinnamon bread lies in the quality of its ingredients. To make this delicious treat, you’ll need to gather a few essential components.
For the Bread Batter
The bread batter is the base of your Amish cinnamon bread. It typically includes flour, sugar, eggs, and buttermilk, among other ingredients. Ensuring that these ingredients are fresh and of good quality is crucial for the best flavor and texture.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
The cinnamon sugar mixture is what gives Amish cinnamon bread its signature flavor and appearance. To make it, you’ll need granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. A typical ratio is 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, but you can adjust this to suit your taste preferences. Some people prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, while others like it more subtle.
The cinnamon sugar mixture serves a dual purpose: it creates the beautiful swirl inside the bread and the crackly, sweet topping. You can also experiment with adding other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the mixture for a unique twist.
- The ideal ratio of cinnamon to sugar can be adjusted based on personal preference.
- Adding other complementary spices can enhance the flavor.
- The cinnamon sugar mixture is key to both the interior and exterior of the bread.
Kitchen Tools Required
Gathering the essential kitchen tools is the first step to making delicious Amish cinnamon bread. To start, you’ll need a few crucial items.
First and foremost, a 9×5 inch loaf pan is necessary for proper baking. Using the correct size loaf pan ensures that your bread bakes evenly and has the right texture.
- A large bowl for mixing the ingredients
- A mixer (stand or hand) for creaming the butter and sugar
- A silicone spatula for scraping the sides of the bowl
You can mix the batter using a stand mixer, a hand mixer, or manually with a whisk. While a mixer makes the process easier, manual mixing is also effective.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×5 inch Loaf Pan | Proper baking and bread shape |
| Large Bowl | Mixing ingredients |
| Mixer (Stand or Hand) | Creasing butter and sugar |
| Silicone Spatula | Scraping bowl sides |
To ensure easy removal of the bread, properly grease the loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Optional tools like a pastry brush can make this process simpler.
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
Making Amish cinnamon bread is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. To achieve the perfect loaf, follow the instructions carefully.
Preparing the Batter
Start by mixing the wet ingredients together, including buttermilk, sugar, eggs, and melted butter. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar swirl. Pour half of the batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter.
Baking to Perfection
To bake your Amish cinnamon bread to perfection, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The bread is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
| Baking Stage | Time/Temperature | Indicator of Doneness |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | 45-50 minutes at 350°F | Golden brown color, toothpick comes out clean |
| Cooling in Pan | 10 minutes | – |
| Cooling on Rack | Until completely cooled | – |
Tips for the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread
With a few simple tips, you can elevate your Amish cinnamon bread to a whole new level. The key to success lies in the details of the preparation process.
Buttermilk Substitutes
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using it in place of buttermilk in your bread recipe.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To achieve the perfect texture, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter. Mixing too much can cause the flour to develop gluten, leading to a tough bread. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Proper measuring techniques are also vital, especially when it comes to flour, as too much can make the bread dense.
Delicious Variations to Try
With the basic Amish cinnamon bread recipe under your belt, you can now explore a world of flavorful variations. The beauty of this bread lies in its versatility, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create something truly unique.
To start, let’s look at some exciting ways to modify the bread. You can begin with add-ins and mix-ins, which can completely transform the character of your Amish cinnamon bread.
Add-ins and Mix-ins
Consider adding different nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor. You can also introduce dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins to create a sweet and savory contrast.
- Explore different spice combinations that can complement or replace the traditional cinnamon.
- Suggest flavor extracts that can be added to the batter for variety.
Flavor Twists
For a delightful twist, you can modify the cinnamon sugar mixture by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. Flavor extracts like vanilla, almond, or maple can be added to the batter to give your bread a unique taste. Incorporating citrus zests or juices can provide a bright flavor contrast.
You can also create seasonal variations using spice blends like pumpkin pie spice. If you prefer less sweetness, you can adjust the sugar content to your taste. Experimenting with these variations will help you create new recipes and enjoy your Amish cinnamon bread in different ways, making the most of your baking time.
How to Store Your Amish Cinnamon Bread
To keep your Amish cinnamon bread fresh for as long as possible, it’s crucial to store it correctly. Proper storage maintains the bread’s moisture and flavor.
Room Temperature Storage
For short-term storage, you can keep your Amish cinnamon bread at room temperature. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, Amish cinnamon bread freezes beautifully. You can wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a resealable freezer-safe plastic bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature. You can also refresh the bread by warming it briefly in the oven. This method allows you to store the bread for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Amish cinnamon bread is not just a recipe, it’s a canvas waiting for your creative touch. You can serve it in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.
Breakfast Ideas
Start your day with a warm slice of Amish cinnamon bread paired with a steaming mug of coffee or tea. The sweetness of the sugar and the warmth of the cinnamon make for a perfect breakfast combination.
Dessert Pairings
Treat it like a coffee cake and serve it with hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy dessert. You can also crumble leftover bread into a parfait or trifle, layering it with yogurt and fresh fruit for a tasty dessert. Consider pairing it with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra-special treat.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream
- Pair with fresh fruit or fruit compotes
- Use as a base for bread pudding
Conclusion
Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that combines the simplicity of ingredients with the joy of sharing. Throughout this article, you’ve learned about the key elements that make this bread special, from its ingredients to the techniques involved in creating the perfect cinnamon sugar swirl.
This delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a comforting loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll appreciate the straightforward instructions that make baking this bread a breeze.
As you print this recipe and begin baking, remember that the true magic lies in sharing your creations with others. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations while maintaining the authentic character of this traditional cinnamon bread recipe. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!