Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe: Few baked goods can compare to the warm, comforting aroma of Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh out of the oven. With its tender crumb, sweet cinnamon sugar swirl, and golden crust, this bread is the definition of home-baked comfort. Unlike typical quick breads, Amish cinnamon bread is both simple to make and incredibly rewarding. You don’t need any special starters or complicated steps—just a few pantry staples and a little time in the kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at homemade baking, but it’s equally beloved by seasoned bakers who enjoy its nostalgic charm. The balance of sweet, buttery batter with the slightly spiced cinnamon sugar filling makes every bite feel like a cozy hug. Whether you serve it with your morning coffee, pack it in a lunchbox, or enjoy it as a late-night treat, Amish cinnamon bread always brings joy to the table.
What Makes Amish Cinnamon Bread Special?
The true magic of Amish cinnamon bread lies in its simplicity. Unlike yeast breads that require proofing and rising, this is a quick bread—meaning it uses baking soda or baking powder instead of yeast. This makes it faster to prepare while still delivering a soft and moist texture. The cinnamon sugar swirl adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming, and the buttery base keeps it rich yet balanced.
Another thing that sets this bread apart is its versatility. You can bake it in a loaf pan, turn it into muffins, or even double the recipe to make multiple loaves at once. Families often make extra loaves to share with neighbors, friends, or loved ones—carrying forward the Amish tradition of hospitality and community.
A Brief History of Amish Baking Traditions
Amish baking is deeply rooted in simplicity, practicality, and resourcefulness. With limited access to modern conveniences, the Amish community developed recipes that relied on pantry staples and could feed large families. Breads, pies, and cakes were often made in large batches and shared among neighbors.
Amish cinnamon bread is believed to have originated as a simplified version of Amish Friendship Bread, which is traditionally made with a sourdough-like starter that’s passed down and shared. While the starter-based bread takes time and planning, this quick bread recipe captures the same comforting flavors without the extra work. It’s a nod to Amish tradition while being perfectly suited for today’s busy kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Amish cinnamon bread is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. This recipe uses simple, everyday items, but when combined, they create a loaf that’s irresistibly delicious.
Main Ingredients for the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + lemon juice/vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These form the base of the bread, giving it structure, moisture, and flavor. The buttermilk adds tanginess and ensures a tender crumb, while butter and sugar provide richness and sweetness.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
This simple two-ingredient mixture transforms the bread into something extraordinary. The cinnamon sugar is layered into the batter, creating a beautiful swirl and a slightly crunchy topping.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
- Raisins or dried cranberries
- Chocolate chips for a sweeter twist
- A pinch of nutmeg for deeper spice flavor
These extras aren’t necessary, but they let you customize the bread to your taste. Nuts add crunch, dried fruit adds chewiness, and chocolate makes it more dessert-like.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Amish Cinnamon Bread
Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients
Before you begin mixing, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them combine more smoothly and ensures an even bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan (or line it with parchment paper for easy removal).
Next, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In another large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this is the base of your batter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
At this point, you’ll alternate adding the dry ingredients with the buttermilk. This keeps the batter from becoming too heavy. Start with a portion of the flour, then a splash of buttermilk, and repeat until everything is combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the bread tough instead of tender.
Step 2 – Mixing the Batter
Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, your batter should be smooth, creamy, and easy to spread. This is the heart of the bread, so take care not to overmix it—doing so can develop too much gluten, leaving you with a dense loaf instead of a soft, moist crumb.
Here are a few tips for perfect batter:
- Scrape down the bowl: Use a spatula to bring everything together evenly.
- Check the consistency: The batter should be thick but spreadable, not runny like cake batter.
- Do a quick taste test: If you’d like it a touch sweeter, you can stir in a spoonful of sugar.
At this stage, you can also fold in any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips. Keep them evenly distributed without over-stirring.
Step 3 – Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
This is the step that gives Amish cinnamon bread its signature look and irresistible flavor.
- Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top, carefully smoothing it out.
- Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar over the surface.
- For a beautiful swirl effect, drag a butter knife through the batter in gentle figure-eight motions.
This layering technique creates lovely streaks of cinnamon throughout the bread and gives the top a caramelized, slightly crunchy crust.
Step 4 – Baking the Bread to Perfection
With your loaf pan ready, place it in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45–55 minutes, depending on your oven. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs (not wet batter).
Tips for baking success:
- Check early: Start checking around the 45-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Even heat: Bake on the middle rack for consistent results.
- Don’t rush cooling: Leave the bread in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
The aroma of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to wait—but letting it cool slightly helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up.
Step 5 – Cooling and Serving
Once the bread has cooled for at least 15 minutes, carefully lift it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
To serve, cut thick slices and enjoy them plain, or take it up a notch with these ideas:
- Spread with softened butter or cream cheese.
- Warm slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
The cinnamon sugar crust adds a delicate crunch, while the inside stays soft and moist—making every bite pure comfort.
Tips for the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread
Even though this recipe is simple, a few pro tips can take your loaf from good to amazing.
How to Get a Perfect Texture
- Always use room-temperature butter and eggs. They mix more evenly into the batter.
- Don’t overmix once you add the flour. Mix just until combined.
- Use fresh baking soda and baking powder—expired leaveners won’t give you the rise you need.
- If your bread browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Mistakes to Avoid While Baking
- Skipping the buttermilk substitute: Regular milk won’t give the same tender texture unless you add lemon juice or vinegar.
- Cutting too soon: Slicing the bread while it’s hot can make it fall apart.
- Overloading with add-ins: Too many extras can weigh down the batter and affect the rise.
Following these tips ensures that your bread turns out fluffy, flavorful, and bakery-worthy every single time.
Variations of Amish Cinnamon Bread
While the classic version is perfect on its own, this recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few fun variations you can try:
Making it Healthier
- Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour.
- Use coconut sugar or brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for fewer calories.
Turning it into Muffins or Cupcakes
- Divide the batter into a muffin tin, layering with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
- Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg).
These adjustments allow everyone to enjoy Amish cinnamon bread, regardless of dietary preferences.
Storing and Freezing Amish Cinnamon Bread
One of the best parts about Amish Cinnamon Bread is how well it keeps. You can bake a loaf on Sunday and still enjoy fresh slices later in the week—or freeze it for future cravings.
Short-Term Storage
- Keep the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3–4 days.
- If your kitchen is warm or humid, store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
When stored properly, the bread stays moist and flavorful without drying out. To refresh a slice, you can microwave it for 10–15 seconds or warm it in a toaster oven.
Freezing for Long-Term Use
Amish cinnamon bread freezes beautifully. Here’s how:
- Let the loaf cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil (or place in a freezer-safe bag).
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw at room temperature overnight. For that “fresh-baked” feel, warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. You’ll barely be able to tell it was frozen.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
This bread is delicious all on its own, but you can also dress it up for special occasions or serve it in creative ways.
Perfect Breakfast Pairings
- Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy start to the day.
- Spread with cream cheese or peanut butter for extra richness.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fruit for a balanced breakfast.
Dessert Serving Suggestions
- Warm a slice and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for indulgence.
- Use it to make a decadent bread pudding with custard sauce.
Because of its cinnamon-sugar flavor, Amish cinnamon bread feels right at home on both breakfast tables and dessert trays.
FAQs about Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes! Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor and makes the bread even moister. You can replace some or all of the white sugar with brown sugar.
2. How long does Amish cinnamon bread stay fresh?
At room temperature, it lasts 3–4 days if stored properly. In the fridge, up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Absolutely. You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) or applesauce as an egg substitute.
4. Is this bread similar to Amish friendship bread?
It’s related, but not the same. Amish Friendship Bread uses a starter that requires days of preparation, while this version is a quick bread you can make in one day.
5. Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?
Yes! This recipe doubles beautifully. Just use two loaf pans and bake them at the same time.
Conclusion
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly magical. With its buttery crumb, warm cinnamon swirl, and perfectly sweet crust, it’s a treat that’s just as comforting today as it was when it first came from Amish kitchens.
It’s easy enough for beginners, versatile enough for creative bakers, and delicious enough to win over anyone who tries it. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, packed in a lunchbox, or served as a dessert with ice cream, this bread is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
So why not preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and bake a loaf today? Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.
