There’s something magical about a homemade dessert that’s so creamy, soft, and warmly spiced it practically melts in your mouth. Amish Cinnamon Bread is exactly that kind of treat. It’s not quite a cake and not quite a loaf—it’s a perfect cross between the two, with a moist crumb and a sugary cinnamon swirl that delivers flavor in every slice.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or simply need something comforting with your afternoon coffee, this bread is a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You don’t need yeast or fancy equipment. With simple pantry staples, this recipe is easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for seasoned bakers.
Let’s dive into this cozy kitchen classic and learn how to bake the perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread from scratch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this deliciously moist and cinnamon-spiced bread, gather the following:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
These ingredients come together to form a rich, sweet batter and a bold cinnamon-sugar swirl that gives the bread its signature character.
Preparing the Bread
Step 1: Make the Batter
Start by combining your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, white sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the batter is just combined—do not overmix. Overworking the batter can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light, tender crumb.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and packed brown sugar. This sweet and spicy mixture is the key to the bread’s irresistible swirl.
Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon into the batter.
Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mix. Again, swirl lightly to create a marbled effect.
If using nuts, you can either mix them into the batter or sprinkle them over the top before baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your loaf pan on the middle rack and bake for 45–55 minutes. Your bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling ensures the bread sets properly and slices without falling apart.
Creative Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic Amish Cinnamon Bread, you can experiment with these fun and flavorful twists:
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread
Add ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the pan. The combination of melty chocolate and cinnamon is unexpectedly delightful.
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Peel and dice one medium apple and fold it into the batter. The fruit adds natural sweetness and moisture, making the bread even more comforting and homey.
Cream Cheese Swirl
Mix together 4 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 egg. Alternate layers of cream cheese with the cinnamon-sugar swirl in the batter. This version has a cheesecake-like surprise in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Cinnamon Bread is incredibly versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
- Toasted with Butter: Lightly toast a slice and spread with butter for a comforting breakfast.
- With a Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled loaf for a bakery-style touch.
- Paired with Coffee or Tea: Its sweetness pairs beautifully with a bitter brew or spiced chai.
- Dessert-Style: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert.
Tips for Success
- Use real buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise and stay moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Do not overmix the batter. Stirring too much activates the gluten and makes the bread dense rather than tender.
- Grease your pan well. This prevents sticking and helps the sugary crust develop around the edges.
- Let it cool completely before slicing. Cutting the bread too early can cause it to crumble or fall apart.
- Store properly. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.
Can I freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that this may result in a denser texture and a nuttier flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter), the bread is ready. The top should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.
Is this the same as Amish Friendship Bread?
Not quite. Amish Friendship Bread is often made with a sourdough-like starter passed between friends, whereas Amish Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread that doesn’t require any starter or fermentation.
Final Thoughts
Amish Cinnamon Bread is the kind of recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and a little bit of nostalgia into your kitchen. With its soft, moist crumb, cinnamon-laced swirl, and golden sugary crust, it’s the kind of treat that makes you want to slow down and savor each bite.
Best of all, it’s a recipe that welcomes creativity. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore fruity or creamy variations, the results are always satisfying. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply treating yourself on a quiet morning, this bread is a must-bake for anyone who loves simple, heartwarming desserts.