Easy Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe – No Starter Needed

The Story Behind Amish Cinnamon Bread

If you’ve ever visited Amish country, you know there’s something special about their baked goods. This Amish cinnamon bread recipe is no exception. It captures all the cozy, homespun comfort of traditional Amish baking without any of the fuss. What makes this recipe particularly special is that it skips the traditional friendship starter that many Amish bread recipes call for.

I remember the first time I tasted authentic Amish cinnamon bread at a small bakery in rural Pennsylvania. The simple, honest flavors and perfect cinnamon swirl had me immediately asking for the recipe. The baker just smiled and said it was all about taking your time and respecting the ingredients.

While traditional Amish friendship bread requires passing a starter between friends (hence the name), this Amish cinnamon bread recipe is what I like to call the “immediate gratification” version. You get all those wonderful flavors without waiting days for a starter to develop. It’s the perfect balance of traditional taste with modern convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe

There’s a reason this cinnamon Amish bread recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m betting it will in yours too:

• No starter needed: Unlike traditional Amish friendship bread that requires a fermented starter, this recipe comes together in one baking session.
• Pantry-friendly ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert (especially warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!).
• Make-ahead friendly: This bread actually tastes even better the day after baking.
• Freezes beautifully: Make a double batch and freeze one loaf for later.

The sweet cinnamon swirl running through each slice makes this Amish cinnamon bread recipe the perfect companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The contrast between the tender, vanilla-scented bread and the crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping creates a texture and flavor experience that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather everything you’ll need for this recipe for Amish cinnamon bread. I’ve separated the ingredients into three categories: the bread batter, the cinnamon swirl mixture, and the topping. Gather your ingredients for a simple and delicious baking experience!

For the Bread:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)Use 1 cup of buttermilk, or make a quick substitute by mixing a tablespoon of vinegar into a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The magic of this Amish cinnamon bread recipe lies in its simplicity. These basic ingredients transform into something extraordinary when combined. The buttermilk gives the bread a tender crumb, while the generous amount of cinnamon creates that signature flavor we all love. Enjoy the delightful aroma as it bakes!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive into making this recipe Amish cinnamon bread, let’s make sure you have all the right tools on hand:

• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper (for easy removal)
• Two mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
• Rubber spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick or cake tester

Nothing fancy is required! That’s the beauty of Amish-inspired recipes – they rely on basic tools and techniques rather than specialized equipment. Let’s ensure you have everything ready for a smooth baking process!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down this Amish cinnamon bread recipe into manageable steps. Take your time with each one, especially the swirling technique – that’s where the magic happens!

Preparing Your Kitchen

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Alternatively, grease and flour the pan thoroughly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon swirl ingredients (except the melted butter) and set aside.
4. In another small bowl, combine the topping ingredients and set aside.

Making the Batter

1. In your large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t rush this step – it’s crucial for a tender crumb!
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to ensure a smooth, even batter.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a different bowl, whisking to evenly blend the dry ingredients
5. Slowly fold the dry mixture into the creamed butter, alternating with splashes of buttermilk. Start and finish with the flour mixture, adding it in three parts and the buttermilk in two.
6. Mix just until combined – overmixing will make your bread tough.

Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

This is where our Amish cinnamon bread recipe gets its signature look and flavor:

1. Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
3. Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter with a figure-eight motion. Don’t overmix – you want distinct swirls.
4. Add the remaining batter on top.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
6. Again, use your knife to create gentle swirls.
7. Sprinkle the topping mixture over everything.

Baking to Perfection

1. Bake in your preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
2. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
3. Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
4. Use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the bread out of the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Your kitchen should now be filled with the intoxicating aroma of this cinnamon Amish bread recipe. Resisting the urge to slice it while it’s still warm might be the toughest step. Wait until it cools completely for the best flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread

After making this recipe for Amish cinnamon bread countless times, I’ve gathered some tips that will help ensure your bread turns out perfect every time:

Getting the Texture Right

• Room temperature ingredients matter: Cold eggs and butter won’t incorporate properly, affecting the texture of your bread.
• Don’t rush the butter-sugar creaming: This step incorporates air into the batter, creating a lighter texture.
• Measure flour correctly: For accurate measurement, gently spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife—never scoop straight from the bag.

Perfecting the Cinnamon Swirl

• Less is more with swirling: Over-swirling will blend the cinnamon sugar too much into the batter. A few gentle passes with a knife creates distinct, beautiful swirls.
• Use a toothpick for more delicate swirls: If you want finer swirls, a toothpick works better than a knife.
• Try the sprinkle method: Instead of swirling, you can create thin layers by alternating small amounts of batter with sprinklings of cinnamon sugar.

Checking for Doneness

• The toothpick test: Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
• Visual cues: The top should be golden brown and may have slight cracks.
• Internal temperature: If you have a kitchen thermometer, the bread is done when it reaches 190°F in the center.

Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance that makes this Amish cinnamon bread recipe so special.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the things I love most about this recipe Amish cinnamon bread is how adaptable it is. Here are some of my favorite variations that still honor the simple, comforting spirit of the original:

Apple Cinnamon Amish Bread

Fold 1 cup of peeled, diced apples tossed in 1 tablespoon of flour into the batter. Chopped apples bring both moisture and a burst of fresh flavor that blends beautifully with the cinnamon spice. I like to use Granny Smith for their tartness, but any baking apple works well.

Want to try the full version with all the exact steps and tips?
Check out the full recipe here: Apple Cinnamon Amish Bread

Streusel-Topped Cinnamon Amish Bread

Replace the simple cinnamon-sugar topping with a streusel mixture: combine 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 3 tablespoons cold butter (cubed), and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Work together with your fingers until crumbly, then sprinkle over the batter before baking.

Want to try the full version with all the exact steps and tips?
Check out the full recipe here: Streusel-Topped Cinnamon Amish Bread

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Amish Bread Recipe

Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolate twist. The chocolate melts slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout your bread.

Want to try the full version with all the exact steps and tips?
Check out the full recipe here: Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Amish Bread Recipe

Cream Cheese Swirl Variation

Blend 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar and a single egg until smooth. Layer this mixture between the bread batter along with the cinnamon swirl for a cheesecake-like experience. This makes the bread richer and even more indulgent.

Want to try the full version with all the exact steps and tips?
Check out the full recipe here: Cream Cheese Swirl

Gluten-Free Amish Cinnamon Bread

Swap the regular flour with a gluten-free blend in a 1:1 ratio for a celiac-friendly version. Add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Want to try the full version with all the exact steps and tips?
Check out the full recipe here: Gluten-Free Amish Cinnamon Bread

Each of these variations stays true to the spirit of the original cinnamon Amish bread recipe while offering new flavor experiences to enjoy.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this amazing Amish cinnamon bread recipe, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and store it.

Perfect Serving Ideas

• Breakfast treat: Slice and toast lightly, then add a small pat of butter.
• Afternoon snack: Enjoy at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Dessert indulgence: Warm a slice, top with vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
• Brunch star: Include it on your brunch table alongside fresh fruit.
• Gift giving: Wrap the loaf in parchment, tie it with twine, and you’ve got the perfect homemade present.

Proper Storage Methods

• Room temperature: Keep the bread fresh for up to three days by sealing it in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making day-old bread sometimes even better than fresh!
• Refrigeration: Extend shelf life to about 1 week by storing in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving or toast lightly to refresh.
• Freezing: This recipe Amish cinnamon bread freezes beautifully! For longer storage, wrap it first in plastic, then foil, and freeze for as long as three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Refreshing Day-Old Bread

If your Amish cinnamon bread has lost its freshness after a few days, try these tricks:

• Toast lightly and butter for breakfast
• Make French toast using slices of the bread (amazing!)
• Create a bread pudding with cubed leftover bread
• A quick 10–15 seconds in the microwave brings back that just-baked softness

With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy every last crumb of your homemade cinnamon Amish bread recipe creation!

Why This Recipe Works

After making countless versions of this Amish cinnamon bread recipe, I’ve come to understand exactly why it works so well. The buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness, while the butter-to-flour ratio ensures a cake-like texture that supports the cinnamon swirl.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The buttermilk in this recipe doesn’t just add flavor – its acidity tenderizes the gluten in the flour and reacts with the baking soda to create the perfect rise. The result is a tender, moist crumb that stays fresh longer than breads made with regular milk.

The butter-to-flour ratio creates a cake-like texture that’s substantial enough to support the cinnamon swirl without becoming dense. And speaking of that swirl – the technique of layering rather than fully incorporating the cinnamon mixture creates those beautiful ribbons of flavor throughout.

While this is a shortcut version of traditional Amish cinnamon bread (no starter required), it still honors the Amish baking traditions of simplicity. Enjoy this recipe that captures the essence of homemade goodness!

While this is a shortcut version of traditional Amish cinnamon bread (no starter required), it still honors the Amish baking traditions of simplicity, avoiding waste, and creating something delicious from basic pantry ingredients. The emphasis on cinnamon as a key flavoring is also typical of Amish baking, where spices were used thoughtfully and purposefully.

Traditional Amish kitchens didn’t have electric mixers, so feel free to mix by hand if you want an even more authentic experience with this cinnamon Amish bread recipe. The results will be just as delicious, with the added satisfaction of connecting to a simpler way of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

After sharing this recipe Amish cinnamon bread with friends and family over the years, I’ve collected these common questions:

Can I make this Amish cinnamon bread recipe without buttermilk?

Yes! Make your own buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. You can also replace it with plain yogurt mixed with a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

Why didn’t my cinnamon swirl show up clearly?

This usually happens when the swirl mixture is mixed too thoroughly into the batter. For distinct swirls, use a light hand with just a few passes of your knife. Also, make sure your batter isn’t too thin – it should be thick enough to hold the swirl pattern.

Can I turn this recipe into muffins instead of a traditional loaf?

Absolutely! This recipe transforms wonderfully into moist, cinnamon-kissed muffins. Fill lined muffin cups about 2/3 full, layering with cinnamon sugar as you go. Bake at the same temperature but reduce the time to about 18-22 minutes. You’ll get approximately 12-14 muffins.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?

This could happen if the bread was underbaked, the oven temperature was too high, or if you opened the oven door too early in the baking process. Make sure to fully test for doneness and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing.

Is this the same as Amish Friendship Bread?

No, traditional Amish Friendship Bread uses a sourdough-like starter that’s shared between friends (hence the name). This Amish cinnamon bread recipe is a quickbread version that captures similar flavors without requiring a starter or long fermentation time.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this cinnamon Amish bread recipe to make two loaves. Bake them side by side in the middle rack of your oven, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Let’s Connect!

I hope you’ve fallen in love with this Amish cinnamon bread recipe as much as I have. There’s something so satisfying about creating this simple yet impressive bread in your kitchen. Enjoy the swirls of cinnamon, the moist tender crumb, and that heavenly aroma.

Have you tried making this recipe for Amish cinnamon bread? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you stick with the classic version or try one of the variations? Share your experience in the comments below – your tips might help another baker achieve cinnamon swirl perfection.

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not try making it for a friend or neighbor? The Amish tradition of friendship and community sharing is beautifully represented in the act of gifting homemade bread. In our busy modern world, there’s something wonderfully meaningful about taking the time to bake something from scratch for someone you care about.

Until next time, happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon and freshly baked bread!

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Classic Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Bread No Yeast

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Easy Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe – No Starter Needed

Author: Olivia Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: American Courses: Cakes Recipe Keys: Dairy Free Kids

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 55 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 10 Estimated Cost: $ 5 Calories: 190

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe brings the warmth of old-fashioned baking to your kitchen. Made without a sourdough starter, it’s simple, flavorful, and full of cinnamon sugar goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this moist and tender bread is always a hit!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Bread:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• ¹⁄₃ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease and flour it well.

Mix cinnamon swirl & topping:

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup sugar and 2 tbsp cinnamon.
2. In another bowl, mix the topping: 2 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon. Set both aside.

Cream butter and sugar:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).

Add eggs and vanilla:

1. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Prepare dry ingredients:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine wet and dry:

1. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in 3 parts, alternating with buttermilk in 2 parts. Start and end with dry. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

Layer the batter and swirl:

1. Pour half of the batter into the pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mix on top.
3. Swirl lightly with a knife.
4. Add remaining batter and repeat the swirl with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar.
5. Sprinkle the topping over everything.

Bake:

1. Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool:

1. Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10

Serving Size Per Serving – 1 slice out of 10

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 215kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 9g14%

Saturated Fat 5.3g27%

Cholesterol 46mg16%

Sodium 240mg10%

Potassium 75mg3%

Total Carbohydrate 31g11%

Dietary Fiber 0.6g3%

Sugars 18g

Protein 3.3g7%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Amish cinnamon bread, cinnamon swirl bread, no starter bread, quickbread, sweet loaf, easy cinnamon bread, homemade Amish bread