Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, homemade bread recipe that brings warmth and sweetness to your kitchen, look no further than this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe. With its soft, tender crumb and delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl, this quick bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a cozy dessert. Best of all? No yeast or rising time required. This is the ultimate no-fuss cinnamon bread that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from ingredients and equipment to variations, expert tips, troubleshooting, and serving ideas. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers old-fashioned flavor with modern-day convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread

There’s something universally comforting about cinnamon and sugar baked into a warm loaf of bread. Amish Cinnamon Bread captures the spirit of traditional homemade baking with a no-yeast, easy-to-make formula. Here are just a few reasons this bread stands out:

1. Quick and Easy

No waiting for dough to rise. No kneading. No proofing. Just mix, layer, swirl, and bake.

2. Foolproof for Beginners

This recipe is ideal for those who are just getting started with baking. No special skills required—just basic kitchen tools and ingredients you probably already have on hand.

3. Incredibly Moist

Thanks to the use of buttermilk and a mix of white and brown sugar, this bread has a moist, tender texture that stays soft for days.

4. Flavor-Packed

The cinnamon sugar swirl in the center and on top adds visual appeal and bold, sweet spice in every bite.

5. Versatile

Serve it as breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a mid-day treat with coffee or tea.

What Is Amish Cinnamon Bread?

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a traditional-style quick bread that’s dense yet soft and typically made without yeast. Its roots are inspired by Amish baking, known for simple, rustic ingredients that yield incredibly rich, satisfying results. The signature swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout the loaf not only makes it beautiful but also infuses every bite with flavor.

Unlike Amish Friendship Bread, which involves a fermented starter and a chain of sharing, this cinnamon bread recipe is straightforward and immediate. No waiting for starters to develop just mix and bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following ingredients for the batter and the cinnamon swirl.

For the Bread:

• ½ cup salted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling & Topping:

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Kitchen Equipment Checklist

Set yourself up for baking success by preparing the right tools:

• 9×5-inch loaf pan

• Mixing bowls (large and small)

• Hand or stand mixer with paddle attachment

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sifter

• Silicone spatula

• Butter knife

• Cooling rack

• Toothpick or cake tester

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. For extra insurance, line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a mixer on medium-high speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, & Buttermilk

Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Mix until the batter is fully combined. If it looks slightly curdled, don’t worry—it will smooth out when the dry ingredients are added.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and baking soda into a separate bowl, then slowly add them to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mix

In a small bowl, mix together ⅓ cup granulated sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl

Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter and gently swirl it in using a butter knife.

Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar on top. Swirl again gently.

Step 7: Add Melted Butter

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the top of the loaf. This adds richness and helps create a slightly crisp, flavorful crust.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 50 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Ovens vary, so begin checking at the 50-minute mark.

Step 9: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Then, carefully remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Bread

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smooth incorporation.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh cinnamon makes a huge flavor difference.

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the batter can result in a dense, rubbery texture.

• Check for Doneness: If the top is browning too quickly but the inside isn’t done, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cinnamon bread in the following delicious ways:

1. Classic Breakfast

Toast a slice and slather with butter. Pair it with scrambled eggs, sausage, or fresh fruit.

2. Sweet Brunch Table

Serve alongside coffee cake, muffins, or scones for a cozy brunch spread.

3. Afternoon Tea

Pair a slice with your favorite tea, a touch of jam, and a quiet moment of peace.

4. Dessert Option

Top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an irresistible dessert.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage ensures the bread stays moist and fresh.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ins

1. Add Nuts

Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and depth.

2. Include Raisins

Golden or regular raisins bring a subtle chew and sweetness.

3. Dairy-Free Version

Use plant-based butter and replace buttermilk with almond milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar.

4. Spice It Up

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for complexity.

5. Mini Loaves or Muffins

Divide batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans and adjust baking time accordingly.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Using Cold Ingredients

Cold ingredients can lead to curdled batter. Let them come to room temperature first.

Mistake 2: Overbaking

Dry bread is a result of baking too long. Use a toothpick to check for doneness early.

Mistake 3: Skipping the Swirl

The cinnamon swirl is key for flavor and aesthetics. Don’t skip this step!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use two loaf pans. Baking time may be the same or slightly longer.

How can I make it healthier?

Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or reduce the sugar slightly. You can also add grated apple or carrot for extra nutrients.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 10 Servings)

• Calories: ~280

• Total Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 45mg

• Sodium: 220mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 38g

• Sugar: 20g

• Protein: 3g

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

Reader Reviews

“This was hands-down the best cinnamon bread I’ve ever made. Moist, perfectly sweet, and so easy. My family devoured it!” — Maria S.

“I added chopped walnuts and baked it in mini loaf pans to give as gifts. Everyone raved about it!” — Thomas J.

Conclusion

Amish Cinnamon Bread is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for your family, gifting it to friends, or enjoying a slice on a quiet morning, this bread is a little reminder that the simplest recipes are often the best. It’s quick. It’s easy. And it’s absolutely delicious.