Name: Amish Cinnamon Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 3 3/4 cups cake flour (you can also use all purpose flour); 3 cups granulated sugar; 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 3/4 tsp baking soda; 3/4 tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 3/4 cups whole milk; 1 1/3 cups vegetable oil; 1 Tbsp vanilla extract

Introduction to Amish Cinnamon Bread

What is Amish Cinnamon Bread?

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful quick bread that has captured hearts and stomachs alike. Known for its rich, sweet flavor and soft texture, this recipe is a beloved treat often shared among friends and family. The very essence of this bread is its simplicity—it doesn’t require any kneading, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.

Traditionally, Amish Cinnamon Bread is made by layering a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture within the batter before baking, creating delightful swirls that are not only visually appealing but also mouthwateringly tasty. It’s often associated with community and sharing, as many bakers pass along the recipe to friends, creating a ripple of joy and warmth as each loaf is shared.

If you're curious about the history or cultural significance of Amish baking, you'll find that it's rich with traditions centered on simplicity, community, and wholesome ingredients. For more insights, check out resources from The Amish Village or Amish America to get a deeper appreciation of this culinary art.

Get ready to embrace the sweet aroma of freshly baked Amish Cinnamon Bread wafting through your home—it’s an experience worth sharing!

Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Creating the perfect loaf of Amish Cinnamon Bread starts with the right ingredients. Here’s a friendly breakdown to help you gather what you need!

Essential Ingredients for the Dough

To build the base of this delicious, no-knead bread, you’ll need:

3 ¾ cups cake flour (or all-purpose if cake flour isn’t available)
3 cups granulated sugar for sweetness
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon to add that classic cinnamon flavor
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ¾ teaspoon baking soda for leavening
¾ teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness
3 large eggs for structure and moisture
1 ¾ cups whole milk to keep it rich and tender
1 ⅓ cups vegetable oil for added moisture
1 tablespoon vanilla extract for a hint of warmth

Special Ingredients for the Cinnamon Topping

The topping makes this bread truly special. For that irresistible swirl of goodness, you’ll need:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

This mixture adds a delightful crunch and flavor that makes you savor every slice.

Feel free to explore further tips and variations through trusted sources like King Arthur Baking or Serious Eats. Ready to bake? Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step-by-step Preparation of Amish Cinnamon Bread

Making Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful process, perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its sweet layers of cinnamon sugar, this quick bread is not only easy to make but also hard to resist. Let’s dive into the preparation with these simple steps!

Preheat and prepare your pans

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This will ensure your bread bakes evenly. While it’s heating, take two standard 9x5 loaf pans and grease them generously with butter or a non-stick spray. To make removal easy later, line the pans with parchment paper, letting some overhang, which will create a handy "sling." Be sure to grease the parchment paper, too, to prevent sticking.

Mix the cinnamon sugar topping

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture will be the sweet topping that adds a delightful crunch to the top of your Amish Cinnamon Bread. Whisk it together until it's well mixed, and set it aside for later.

Combine the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 3 ¾ cups of cake flour (or all-purpose flour), 3 cups of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¾ teaspoon of salt. Make sure there are no lumps; this will give your bread a light, fluffy texture.

Whisk together the wet ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 ¾ cups of whole milk, 1 ⅓ cups of vegetable oil, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until smooth. The key here is to ensure everything is well combined; you want that rich, moist flavor to penetrate all the ingredients.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Now, pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can result in a dense bread, and nobody wants that! Remember, we want to keep it light and fluffy!

Fill the loaf pans and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar

Evenly distribute the batter between your two prepared loaf pans. Then, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of each loaf. This is where the magic happens, as that sweet topping melts into the bread while it bakes, creating a heavenly crust.

Bake the bread

Finally, place your pans in the oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pans for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. If you've used parchment paper, lifting it out is a breeze!

Enjoy slicing up your Amish Cinnamon Bread and sharing it. It's a perfect companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea! If you're interested in more delightful bread recipes, feel free to explore other baking adventures!

Variations of Amish Cinnamon Bread

Nutty Cinnamon Bread

For those seeking a little crunch in their Amish Cinnamon Bread, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. This variation not only introduces delightful texture but also enhances the rich, nutty flavor profile. Simply fold in about 1 cup of your favorite chopped nuts into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pans. You’ll be amazed at how this small tweak can elevate your bread!

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread

If you're a chocolate lover, why not combine two of your favorite treats? Add a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a heavenly twist on the classic Amish Cinnamon Bread. The gooey chocolate melds beautifully with the cinnamon, creating a sweet indulgence perfect for breakfast or dessert. You could even sprinkle a few extra chips on top before baking to create an appealing finish. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Avoiding Sticking and Ensuring Even Baking

To achieve perfectly baked Amish Cinnamon Bread without any drama, greasing your pan is essential! Use a high-quality nonstick spray or butter to coat the sides and bottom. A cool trick is to line the pan with parchment paper, lightly greasing it as well. This way, when it’s time to cool, you can easily lift the loaf out. For even baking, place your loaf pans in the center of the oven to ensure consistent heat circulation.

Tips for Perfecting the Moist Texture

Maintaining a moist texture is key to luscious Amish Cinnamon Bread. Using fresh ingredients, particularly the eggs and milk, makes all the difference. Avoid overmixing the batter; a few lumps are perfectly okay. Remember, as it bakes, a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely dry—this ensures that delightful texture everyone loves! For more tips, visit Baking 101 for expert advice.

Serving Suggestions for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Perfect pairings with beverages

Enjoying a slice of Amish Cinnamon Bread is made even better with the right beverage. Consider pairing it with:

Coffee or Lattes: The warm, rich flavors of cinnamon complement a hot cup beautifully.
Herbal Tea: Chamomile or peppermint can enhance the comforting experience.
Milk: A classic choice that appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a delightful treat.

Creative serving ideas for gatherings

When it comes time for gatherings, Amish Cinnamon Bread shines as a versatile dish. Here are some fun serving ideas:

Toast with Toppings: Serve thin slices toasted with butter, cream cheese, or preserves.
Bread Pudding: Transform leftovers into a decadent bread pudding topped with vanilla ice cream.
Gift Packages: Wrap loaves in decorative paper as thoughtful gifts for friends or co-workers.

These serving suggestions not only elevate the experience but also encourage sharing and celebration!

Time Breakdown for Amish Cinnamon Bread

Preparation Time
The prep time for making Amish Cinnamon Bread is about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the dry and wet components, and preparing your loaf pans.

Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it into the oven! The baking time is approximately 60 to 65 minutes. Keep an eye out for that beautiful golden crust.

Total Time
Overall, from start to finish, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delicious bread. It's the perfect treat for sharing at gatherings or savoring during a quiet afternoon! For more bread recipes, check out King Arthur Baking for additional inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Amish Cinnamon Bread

If you're indulging in a slice of Amish Cinnamon Bread, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Here's a quick overview:

Calories

Each generous slice contains about 259 calories. It’s a comforting treat, but moderation is key to enjoying it guilt-free!

Protein

You can boost your day with approximately 4 grams of protein per slice, making it a satisfying choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Sugar Content

With 36 grams of sugar per slice, this bread is undeniably sweet and delightful. It's perfect for those sugar cravings, but you might want to pair it with something more nutrient-dense for balance.

Whether you're sharing it with friends or savoring a quiet moment alone, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a deliciously indulgent option that can be enjoyed responsibly. For more healthy baking ideas, consider checking out The Whole Grains Council or The American Heart Association.

FAQs about Amish Cinnamon Bread

How can I make my Amish Cinnamon Bread less sweet?

If you find that Amish Cinnamon Bread is a bit too sugary for your taste, there are a few easy adjustments you can make. Start by reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the bread by ½ cup. You can also cut back on the cinnamon sugar topping. Swapping out some of the sugar for unsweetened applesauce (about ¼ cup) can keep that moist texture while dialing down the sweetness.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Absolutely! If you want a healthier twist, feel free to substitute whole wheat flour for cake flour. Just keep in mind that it might alter the texture slightly, making the bread denser. For the best results, try using a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to achieve a balance between nutrition and fluffiness.

How do I store leftover Amish Cinnamon Bread?

To keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer-lasting freshness, you can freeze individual slices or the whole loaf in an airtight container. Just make sure to thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a warm treat!

For more expert tips on bread storage, check out this National Bread Month guide.

Conclusion on Amish Cinnamon Bread

Why you should try making Amish Cinnamon Bread

Making Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. With its no-knead recipe, it’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The rich, sweet flavor paired with a hint of cinnamon makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with friends and family—who wouldn’t love receiving a homemade loaf? So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious journey of baking!

For more tips on baking breads, check out thejoyofbaking.com for inspiration!