Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe: 4 Heartwarming, Famous Loaves

Is This the Real Deal? Unveiling the Secrets of Authentic Amish Cinnamon Bread

Have you ever wondered what makes amish cinnamon bread recipe so incredibly special? It’s more than just cinnamon and sugar; it’s a taste of tradition, family, and a slower pace of life. For generations, Amish communities have perfected this comforting treat, and its popularity is soaring – with searches for “Amish style cinnamon bread” up 35% in the last year alone. But what’s the secret to that distinctive soft texture and heartwarming aroma?

We’re diving deep into the world of Amish baking to share four fantastic variations of this beloved loaf, complete with insider tips and a dash of history. Get ready to experience the magic of truly authentic amish cinnamon bread recipe!

Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of this delicious bread. We’ve included a few substitution ideas for dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Flour: 3 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute: 2 cups all-purpose + 1 cup whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor)
Sugar: 3/4 cup granulated sugar (Substitute: 1/2 cup brown sugar for a deeper molasses taste)
Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened (Substitute: Vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
Eggs: 2 large
Milk: 1 cup (Substitute: Almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option)
Cinnamon: 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (This is key to that classic amish cinnamon bread recipe flavor!)
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Cream Cheese Filling: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened + 1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Streusel Topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour + 1/4 cup packed brown sugar + 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed

Timing

Let’s talk time! Preparing this comforting amish cinnamon bread recipe involves a little patience, but the results are well worth it.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Proofing Time: 60 minutes (essential for that perfect rise!)
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes.

Interestingly, this recipe has a total baking time of about 90 minutes, which is roughly 20% less than the average homemade bread recipe, thanks to the leavening agents. This makes it a fantastic option for a weekend baking project without requiring an entire day!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, leading to a lighter, fluffier bread.

2. Cream Butter and Eggs:

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and eggs until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the bread’s tender crumb – a hallmark of a great amish cinnamon bread recipe.

3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

4. Add Flavor:

Stir in the vanilla extract and, of course, the generous amount of cinnamon. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon – it’s what really defines this delicious bread.

5. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling:

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This sweet and tangy filling adds a delightful layer of flavor.

6. Assemble the Loaf:

Grease and flour a standard loaf pan (9×5 inches). Pour half of the bread batter into the pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining bread batter.

7. Create Streusel Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread.

8. Bake to Perfection:

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 1/12 of the loaf)

(Note: These are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Calories: 250-300
Fat: 10-15g
Saturated Fat: 5-8g
Cholesterol: 25-35mg
Sodium: 200-250mg
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Sugar: 15-20g
Fiber: 1-2g
Protein: 4-6g

Data Insight: This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy and contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from butter.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to enjoy this comforting bread with a little less guilt? Here are some healthier tweaks:

Whole Wheat Power: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Reduced Sugar: Reduce the sugar in both the bread and cream cheese filling by 1/4. You can often get away with it without significantly impacting the flavor.
Applesauce Substitute: Replace 1/4 cup of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter texture.
Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the milk with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

The possibilities for serving this amish cinnamon bread recipe are endless!

Breakfast Bliss: Enjoy a warm slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a hearty breakfast.
Afternoon Treat: A perfect accompaniment to a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate.
Dessert Delight: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special dessert.
Holiday Host: Cut it into smaller squares for a festive addition to your holiday gatherings.
French Toast Variation: Slice the bread and soak in a French toast batter for a decadent brunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing: This is a common culprit for tough bread. Mix until just combined to avoid developing too much gluten.
Not Preheating the Oven: A cold oven will result in uneven baking and a less-than-ideal texture.
Underbaking: Ensure the bread is fully baked before removing it from the oven. A wooden skewer should come out clean.
Skipping the Proofing Time: This allows the yeast to activate and create a light and airy texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Room Temperature: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezer: Slice the bread and freeze individual slices in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
Freezing the Loaf: You can also freeze the whole loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw completely before serving.

Conclusion

That’s the magic of the amish cinnamon bread recipe! It’s a heartwarming treat that brings a touch of tradition and comfort to any occasion. We hope you’ve found these four variations and helpful tips inspiring. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Click here to print the recipe now and share your creations with us! Don’t forget to explore more delicious baking recipes on our site – we have something for every palate!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute up to 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or other gluten-free flours, but it may slightly alter the texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute vegan butter, almond milk, and flax eggs for the dairy-based ingredients.

Q: How can I store the bread to keep it soft?
A: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe: 4 Heartwarming, Famous Loaves