Introduction to Amish Cinnamon Bread
Isn’t that the best when the house is filled with the smell of fresh-baked bread? This Amish Cinnamon Bread is a flavor explosion for your taste buds, great for on-the-go mornings or just relaxing nights. I usually have this in my back pocket when I need to really spoil my family with little effort. The flavor table: the place where people sit daily and unconsciously build happy memories by sharing food; so, whether it serves you as a daily sweet little breakfast or an after-dinner dessert, this fantastic cinnamon bread will not let you down. Well, let’s jump into the easy methodology and add some sweetness to our routine!
Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread
This recipe is a game changer for any busy mom or professional! It’s quick to whip up and doesn’t require fancy techniques. The delightful cinnamon swirl takes simple ingredients and turns them into a showstopper. Plus, the warm aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply unforgettable. You’ll find yourself making excuses just to bake this charming bread again and again!
Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread
To create this delightful Amish Cinnamon Bread, you’ll need a mix of both staple and flavorful ingredients. Let’s break them down:
- Butter: Softened butter is key for a rich, creamy texture. It helps create that fluffy goodness we all love.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the bread, while a bit is reserved for that irresistible cinnamon swirl.
- Egg: This acts as a binding agent, adding moisture and richness to the loaf.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth of flavor to the mix. Optional, but deeply satisfying!
- Milk: Whole milk keeps the bread moist. You can also use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sour cream: This adds a touch of tanginess and keeps the bread tender. Greek yogurt makes a lovely substitute, in case you don’t have sour cream on hand.
- All-purpose flour: The base for your bread. If gluten-free is your style, substitute with almond or coconut flour, though texture may vary.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent gives the bread a nice rise. It’s essential for that soft crumb!
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the star spice here. It turns ordinary bread into a cinnamon dream!
- Additional sugar and cinnamon for swirling: A mix of these creates that heavenly cinnamon sugar swirl, bringing the final touch to your creation.
Exact measurements for each ingredient are provided at the bottom of this article for easy printing. So don’t worry about jotting them down just yet!
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to set the stage for our baking adventure! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures a perfect rise and golden color for our bread.
Next, grab a trusty 8×4-inch loaf pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray; both will work wonders. A well-greased pan prevents sticky situations later and guarantees a beautiful loaf!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Now, let’s get that creamy texture! In a bowl, combine your softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix them together until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This magic step is vital, as it introduces air into the batter, giving our bread a light, tender crumb.
When it’s done, you should see a lovely, creamy texture building up, hinting at the deliciousness to come!
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Next up, it’s time for the egg and vanilla! Crack that egg into the mixing bowl and add your splash of vanilla extract. Mixing these in not only enhances the flavor but also adds essential moisture to our delightful Amish Cinnamon Bread.
Beat them together until fully incorporated, and you’ll see the batter transform, becoming even smoother and inviting!
Step 4: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the milk and sour cream until they form a creamy blend. This is where we add moisture and a touch of tang to our bread. If you’re out of sour cream, don’t fret! Greek yogurt is a fantastic swap that works beautifully.
Set this delightful wet mixture aside for a moment, as we prepare the next steps!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients Gradually
Let’s start bringing our bread to life! With the mixer on low speed, gradually mix in one cup of flour and baking soda into your butter-sugar-egg mixture. This keeps everything nice and lump-free, which is crucial for our final texture.
Once that’s mixed in, pour in your milk and sour cream blend. Mix gently yet thoroughly, then add in the remaining flour. The batter should come together beautifully, creating a lovely thick consistency.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl
It’s time for the fun part! Transfer half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then, sprinkle around three-quarters of your cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer. Pour the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar. The layering is key to achieving the perfect swirl!
Now, take a knife and gently swirl it through the batter. Don’t overdo it—just enough to create tantalizing swirls without losing all the definition!
Step 7: Baking Time
Place your loaf pan in the oven and let the magic happen. Bake for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as nobody wants a dry loaf!
While it bakes, treat yourself to that glorious aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s the best kind of anticipation!
Step 8: Cooling Before Serving
Once you’ve pulled your golden loaf from the oven, it might be tempting to slice right in. But hold on! Let the bread cool completely in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This cooling helps it set and improves its slice-ability. Patience pays off here!
After cooling, transfer the loaf to a wire rack, which allows the air to circulate. This keeps your bread soft and prevents a soggy bottom!
Tips for Success
- Always use softened butter for easy mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it can lead to a dense loaf.
- For a delightful twist, add nuts or raisins to the batter!
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
- 8×4-inch loaf pan – If you don’t have one, any similar-sized baking dish will work.
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl is perfect, but even a smaller one can do in a pinch.
- Stand mixer or hand mixer – A whisk can be a workout, but it’s doable!
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for precise baking; improvise with different cup sizes if needed.
- Whisk – To blend those wet ingredients smoothly.
Variations of Amish Cinnamon Bread
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Mix in a handful of raisins or chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Try replacing half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil and almond milk instead.
Serving Suggestions for Amish Cinnamon Bread
- Enjoy warm slices with a pat of butter for a classic treat.
- Pair with a cup of steaming coffee or rich hot cocoa for a cozy feel.
- Slice and serve with fresh fruit like berries for a delightful breakfast.
- Drizzle with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert.
- Present slices on a beautiful platter, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal.
FAQs about Amish Cinnamon Bread
Do you have questions about making this delightful bread? I’ve got you covered!
Can I freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread? Absolutely! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to keep it fresh.
How do I know when it’s done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If it wiggles, give it more time!
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and bake it fresh the next day.
What can I add to enhance the flavor? Experiment with nuts, chocolate chips, or even an extra dash of spice for personal flair!
Final Thoughts
Every time I bake Amish Cinnamon Bread, I feel a joyful connection to my kitchen and the people I love. The simple process brings such satisfaction, and that heavenly aroma? It lingers like a warm embrace. Enjoying a slice brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings, filling my heart with nostalgia. This delightful quick bread is more than a simple treat; it’s an experience ripe with joy. Whether it’s the centerpiece of breakfast or a sweet ending to dinner, this recipe will surely become a cherished favorite in your home, creating delicious moments for years to come.
PrintAmish Cinnamon Bread: Indulge in This Easy Recipe!
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make quick bread enriched with a heavenly cinnamon swirl, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/3 cup sugar (for swirl)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F and grease an 8×4″ loaf pan.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a mixing bowl with an electric hand mixer), cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- In a separate liquid measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together milk and sour cream and set aside.
- With the mixer on low speed, add 1 cup of flour and the baking soda to the butter/sugar/egg mixture, mixing until incorporated.
- Pour the milk and sour cream mixture into the batter, mixing to combine.
- Add the remaining 1 cup of flour to the batter, mixing just until incorporated.
- Transfer half of the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Add about 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter and remaining sugar.
- Use a knife to swirl the batter in a back and forth motion, allowing the cinnamon sugar to swirl into the batter.
- Bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened for better mixing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- This bread can be sliced and toasted for an extra treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg