Irresistible Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Table of Contents
The smell of cinnamon bread baking at home is a joy for all. It brings warmth and comfort, making any day better.
This Amish favorite has been loved for generations. Its simplicity and taste make it perfect for any time. You’ll learn how to make this homemade bread, from start to finish.
Baking this Amish cinnamon bread recipe is a simple process that brings satisfying results. With just a few ingredients and basic tools, you’ll soon enjoy a tasty homemade treat.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the joy of baking a traditional Amish treat.
- Learn how to make a delicious homemade cinnamon bread.
- Understand the simplicity of the Amish bread recipe.
- Savor the cozy aroma and comforting taste of homemade bread, fresh from the oven.
- Impress your family and friends with this delightful homemade delight.
The Rich Heritage of Amish Cinnamon Bread
The Amish are celebrated for their strong traditions and cultural legacy. Their traditional cinnamon bread is a delightful part of this. You might wonder what makes this bread special and how it became a key part of Amish traditions.
Origins and Cultural Significance
This cinnamon bread holds a meaningful place in Amish history and culinary customs. The recipe, passed down through generations, shows the Amish values of simplicity, hard work, and community bonding. Traditional Amish recipes like this bread are more than just food. They’re about the stories, love, and warmth shared among family and friends.
The cultural significance of Amish bread is in its ability to bring people together. It’s for family gatherings, community events, or simple meals with neighbors.
What Makes This Bread a Beloved Tradition
So, what makes Amish cinnamon bread so beloved? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and sweetness. Making this bread is a labor of love, requiring patience, care, and attention to detail. The result is a deliciously sweet bread that celebrates tradition and community.
Some key aspects that make it beloved include:
- The use of simple, wholesome ingredients.
- The process of preparing the dough, which is often a family affair.
- The delightful cinnamon sugar swirl that adds a touch of sweetness.
Complete Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Now, let’s explore the complete recipe for Amish cinnamon bread. This bread is made with simple, high-quality ingredients. You probably have them in your pantry already.
Ingredients for the Bread Dough
The dough is the heart of a great Amish cinnamon bread. It’s made with:
- 2 cups of warm water (around 105°F to 115°F)
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast (make sure it’s fresh for the best rise)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (white granulated sugar is best)
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour (use high-quality flour for a tender crumb)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (kosher or sea salt adds a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted (adds moisture and flavor)
These ingredients come together to make a dough that’s soft and strong. It’s perfect for holding the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
The cinnamon sugar mixture is what makes Amish cinnamon bread special. You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar (white sugar is ideal)
- 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon (use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor)
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened (helps the mixture spread evenly)
Mixing these ingredients together creates a sweet and spicy blend. This blend swirls through the bread, giving it a deliciously complex flavor.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
To ensure your Amish cinnamon bread turns out perfectly, follow these detailed baking instructions.
Preparing Your Kitchen and Equipment
Before you start, make sure your kitchen and equipment are ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need a 9×5-inch loaf pan, greased with butter or cooking spray. Ensure your mixing bowls, measuring cups, and utensils are clean and within reach. A stand mixer or a large mixing bowl with a wooden spoon will be necessary for mixing the dough.
Mixing and Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Then, add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Creating the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl
To create the cinnamon swirl, you’ll need to roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of sugar with 2 tablespoons of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log in half lengthwise, then twist the two halves together to create the swirl.
Baking Times and Temperature Guidelines
Place the loaf in the prepared pan, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Check the bread’s internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C) when done. Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before placing it on a wire rack to finish cooling.
| Baking Stage | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheating | 350°F (175°C) | – |
| Rising | Warm, draft-free place | Until doubled in size |
| Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes |
| Cooling in pan | Room temperature | 10 minutes |
“The art of bread making is not just about following a recipe, it’s about understanding the process and being patient.”
Renowned Baker
The Friendship Bread Starter Variation
Beyond the basic Amish cinnamon bread recipe, there’s a fascinating world of friendship bread starters to explore. This variation involves creating a natural starter culture. You can use it to bake bread and share with friends, fostering a sense of community and connection through the tradition of Amish friendship bread.
Creating Your Starter
To create your starter, mix equal parts of flour and sugar with some warm water. This creates an environment conducive to fermentation. Use a clean glass or ceramic container to avoid contamination. Allow this mixture to sit at room temperature, feeding it regularly, until it becomes bubbly and active. This marks the successful creation of your bread starter.
Maintaining and Sharing Your Starter
Once your starter is active, maintaining it involves regularly feeding it with more flour and sugar. This process not only keeps your starter healthy but also allows you to share it with friends by dividing it. Sharing your starter is a gesture of friendship and a way to spread the joy of baking. When sharing, make sure to provide instructions on how to care for the starter, ensuring that it continues to thrive with its new caretaker.
To keep your starter alive, store it in the refrigerator and feed it once a week. Before using it in your Amish friendship bread recipe, allow it to return to room temperature and feed it a few times. This helps maintain the starter’s vitality.
Serving Suggestions and Complementary Pairings
Amish Cinnamon Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed at any time. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a comforting snack. This bread is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Best Times to Serve Amish Cinnamon Bread
Amish Cinnamon Bread is great at any time of day. In the morning, it’s lovely with coffee or tea. It’s also perfect for a snack with cold milk or a warm drink.
For a special treat, serve it as dessert with vanilla ice cream. It’s a delightful way to end your meal.
- Breakfast: Enjoy with coffee or tea
- Snack: Pair with milk or a warm beverage
- Dessert: Serve with vanilla ice cream
Beverages and Accompaniments
Pairing Amish Cinnamon Bread with the right drinks and toppings can make it even better. Coffee and tea are classic choices that match the bread’s cinnamon flavor. For a simple touch, try butter or jam on your slice.
If you’re feeling fancy, top it with whipped cream or cinnamon sugar. It adds a delightful extra touch.
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, milk
- Accompaniments: Butter, jam, whipped cream, cinnamon sugar
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Amish Delight
Baking homemade Amish cinnamon bread is a rewarding experience. As you slice into it, the smell of cinnamon and sweet dough fills the air. It invites you to take a bite. Enjoying homemade Amish bread is more than just a tasty treat. It’s about sharing a tradition that brings people together.
Sharing your homemade cinnamon bread with family and friends is special. It’s a meaningful way to connect with others and create lasting memories. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly morning or at a gathering, it’s always a hit.
By baking and sharing this beloved bread, you keep a tradition alive. So, take a bite and enjoy the joy of homemade Amish bread.
FAQ
What is Amish cinnamon bread?
Amish cinnamon bread is a traditional sweet bread. It comes from the Amish community. It’s known for its soft texture and sweet cinnamon swirl.
What makes Amish cinnamon bread so special?
The bread uses simple ingredients. It has a cinnamon sugar mixture swirled through the dough. This creates a delightful flavor and aroma.
Can I make Amish cinnamon bread without a bread machine?
Yes, you can make it without a bread machine. You can mix and knead it by hand or with a stand mixer.
How do I store Amish cinnamon bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Or, freeze it for longer storage.
Can I customize the Amish cinnamon bread recipe?
Yes, you can customize it. Add different nuts, use various sugars, or adjust the cinnamon to your taste.
What is a friendship bread starter, and how is it used?
A friendship bread starter is a mix of yeast and bacteria. It’s used to leaven bread. It’s shared among friends as part of the Amish baking tradition.
How do I maintain a friendship bread starter?
To keep a starter, feed it with flour and sugar regularly. Store it in the fridge to slow it down. Or, freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use instant yeast instead of a friendship bread starter?
Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute. But, the flavor and texture might be slightly different.