Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless classic that fills your home with a warm, comforting aroma as it bakes. This sweet and slightly spicy bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack. Originating from traditional Amish kitchens, it has a soft, moist texture and a swirl of cinnamon sugar that’s simply irresistible. In this guide, we’ll share the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some valuable tips to help you create a delicious loaf of Amish Cinnamon Bread.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to create the delightful cinnamon sugar topping. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Incorporate the large eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully combined. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the addition of 2 cups of buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Be cautious not to overmix; just combine until everything is incorporated.
Step 7: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar
- Split the batter in half and place half of it evenly into each of the prepared loaf pans.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter in each pan.
- Add the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer.
- To create the classic swirl, use a knife or skewer to gently run through the batter, mixing the cinnamon sugar throughout.
Step 8: Bake
- Place both pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Allow the freshly baked Amish Cinnamon Bread to cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, transfer the loaves to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, slice and savor the delightful taste of your homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread!
Pro Tips for a Delectable Amish Cinnamon Bread:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are all at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Swirling Technique: When swirling the cinnamon sugar into the batter, don’t overmix. A few gentle strokes are enough to create a marbled effect.
- Storage: To keep your bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Variations: Feel free to add chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a beloved treat that embodies the coziness of home baking. With its tender crumb and sweet cinnamon swirls, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this bread carries the warmth and comfort of homemade goodness. Share it with loved ones and relish in the simple joy of homemade bread.