Amish Cinnamon Bread

Introduction

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delicious and moist sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty treat any time of the day. This bread is known for its soft texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and a delightful sugary crust that forms on the top. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and yields impressive results. So, let’s dive into the world of Amish Cinnamon Bread and learn how to make this delectable treat.

Ingredients

To make Amish Cinnamon Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup white sugar

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup buttermilk

– 1/2 cup vegetable oil

– 2 large eggs

– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

– 1 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Steps

Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the steps involved in making Amish Cinnamon Bread:

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, white sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as it can lead to a dense bread.

Step 2: Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and packed brown sugar. This will be the delicious cinnamon swirl that adds a burst of flavor to the bread.

Pour half of the prepared batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Add the remaining batter on top and repeat the process with the remaining cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. Swirl it into the batter until well combined.

Step 3: Baking the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Variations

While the classic Amish Cinnamon Bread is already a crowd-pleaser, you can also experiment with some variations to add your own twist to the recipe:

1. Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread

Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite. The combination of cinnamon and chocolate is simply irresistible.

2. Apple Cinnamon Bread

Peel and chop a medium-sized apple into small pieces. Fold the apple pieces into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. The juicy apple chunks will infuse the bread with a burst of fruity goodness.

3. Cream Cheese Swirl Cinnamon Bread

Create a cream cheese mixture by combining 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg. Alternate layers of the cream cheese mixture with the cinnamon swirl mixture in the batter to create a creamy and tangy surprise.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Amish Cinnamon Bread turns out perfectly:

– Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tender and moist bread.

– Make sure to evenly distribute the cinnamon and brown sugar swirl throughout the batter for a balanced flavor.

– Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

– Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its warm cinnamon flavor, soft texture, and sugary crust, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the heavenly aroma and taste of Amish Cinnamon Bread.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread?

Yes, you can freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread. Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature and warm it slightly in the oven before serving.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the bread may be slightly different. Whole wheat flour tends to result in a denser bread with a nuttier flavor.