Easy & Delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe | No Yeast Required

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless recipe celebrated for its simplicity and exceptional flavor. This delightful sweet bread doesn’t require complicated starters or lengthy rising times, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a handful of pantry staples and a mixing bowl, you can create two fragrant loaves filled with a warm cinnamon-sugar swirl. This cherished recipe, passed down through generations, consistently delivers a delightful outcome, making it ideal for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a heartfelt homemade gift.

The unique appeal of Amish Cinnamon Bread lies in the harmonious contrast between its tender crumb and the aromatic cinnamon swirl. The bread’s batter is enriched with butter and buttermilk, giving it a tender, almost cake-like texture. As it bakes, the cinnamon-sugar mixture melts into delectable streaks, creating a caramelized layer on top and a warm, comforting spiral throughout the loaf. Slicing into a still-warm loaf reveals the gentle pull of the swirl – a hallmark of classic homemade bread.

This recipe honors the traditional method: no yeast, no complex steps, just baking soda for leavening and a straightforward mixing process. All the ingredients are combined in a bowl, layered with cinnamon sugar, and swirled lightly before baking. The top develops a crisp, sugary crust that crackles upon slicing. Allowing the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms. Once cooled, the bread slices neatly and maintains its structure, making it suitable for freezing or gifting.

Secret Ingredient for the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread

Here’s a well-kept secret that elevates this bread: add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon directly to the batter. This simple addition doesn’t overwhelm the bread but enhances its aroma and imparts a richer, more complex flavor reminiscent of bread from an authentic Amish bakery. While many older recipes omit this step, it makes a noticeable difference in the bread’s overall warmth and balance.

Another tip: Once the warm loaves are out of the oven, spread a thin layer of softened butter over the top. It will melt into the cinnamon crust, creating a glossy finish that evokes a sense of nostalgia and enhances the flavor even more the next day.

This recipe is easily doubled, and since it already yields two loaves, you can conveniently freeze one for future enjoyment. Wrap cooled slices individually, lay them flat in the freezer, and retrieve them whenever you crave a quick cinnamon treat with your coffee. Whether you’re baking for your family, sharing a gift with neighbors, or stocking your freezer with comforting treats, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a recipe you’ll revisit time and again. Its ingredients are readily available, the method is dependable, and the flavor is truly unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread

• No yeast required
• No starter needed
• Uses only basic ingredients
• Delivers a soft, moist texture
• Creates a perfect swirl of cinnamon sugar
• Freezes beautifully for later enjoyment

The magic of this bread lies in the way the cinnamon sugar subtly melts into the batter, creating pockets of sweet, warm goodness that resemble the center of a cinnamon roll.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a beautifully golden crust.

Grease two 9×5 inch loaf pans thoroughly with butter or a non-stick baking spray. This prevents the bread from sticking and allows for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using)

Whisk these ingredients until they are evenly blended. This ensures that the baking soda is distributed throughout the flour, resulting in a consistent rise.

Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients

Add the softened butter, eggs, and buttermilk to the dry mixture in the large mixing bowl.

Stir until the batter is smooth and just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher bread. You want a batter that is free of dry streaks but not overly smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a separate small bowl, combine the following ingredients to create the sweet swirl:

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Mix these together well. This mixture will provide the characteristic cinnamon swirl that defines Amish Cinnamon Bread.

Step 5: Create the First Layer in the Loaf Pans

Pour half of the batter evenly into the two prepared loaf pans. Distribute the batter equally to ensure that both loaves bake at the same rate.

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter in each pan. This layer of cinnamon sugar will create a delightful swirl of flavor throughout the bread.

Step 6: Add the Second Layer

Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer in each pan, spreading it evenly to cover the cinnamon sugar.

Finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter in both pans. This final layer will create a delicious, caramelized crust on top of the bread.

Step 7: Swirl the Loaves to Create Ribbons of Flavor

Use a butter knife or a thin skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter in each pan.

Be careful not to overmix. You want to create visible ribbons of cinnamon throughout the batter, rather than completely blending it in. This will ensure a beautiful and flavorful swirl in the finished bread.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45–50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a loaf. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, the bread is ready.

If the top of the bread begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 9: Cool and Serve Your Delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread

Once the bread is done baking, remove the loaf pans from the oven and let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This allows the bread to set slightly and prevents it from crumbling when you transfer it to a wire rack.

After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread completely before slicing will help it maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming gummy.

Slice and enjoy your warm Amish Cinnamon Bread with a pat of butter, or enjoy it at room temperature. This bread is also delicious toasted!

A Secret for an Even Softer Crumb

For an even more tender and melt-in-your-mouth crumb, try this tip: Take 1 tablespoon of the buttermilk from the recipe and whisk it with ½ teaspoon of baking soda in a small bowl. Let it fizz for a moment, then add it to the main batter in Step 3. This extra step activates the baking soda more quickly and helps to create that incredibly soft texture that Amish bakers are known for.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Your Amish Cinnamon Bread

To keep your Amish Cinnamon Bread fresh, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When stored properly, it will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days.

How to Freeze Your Amish Cinnamon Bread

For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap whole loaves or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap them again in aluminum foil for added protection. Frozen Amish Cinnamon Bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Your Amish Cinnamon Bread

To reheat frozen slices, warm them in the microwave for 10–12 seconds. For a more oven-baked taste, you can reheat slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.

Troubleshooting Guide

The Bread Came Out Dry

• Possible reasons for dry bread:
• Overbaked
• Oven temperature too high
• Insufficient buttermilk in the batter

The Bread Didn’t Rise Properly

• Possible reasons for the bread not rising:
• Expired or inactive baking soda
• Batter was overmixed
• Oven not preheated to the correct temperature

The Cinnamon Swirl Sank to the Bottom

• Possible reasons for the cinnamon swirl sinking:
• Too much sugar concentrated in one area
• Swirl was mixed in too deeply

The Top Browned Too Quickly

• Possible reasons for the top browning too fast:
• Loaf pans were placed too close to the top heating element in the oven
• Solution: Tent the loaves with foil halfway through baking to prevent excessive browning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amish Cinnamon Bread

What distinguishes Amish Cinnamon Bread from other cinnamon bread recipes?

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread, meaning it relies on baking soda for leavening rather than yeast. The inclusion of buttermilk contributes to its incredibly soft and tender crumb. Plus, the generous cinnamon-sugar swirl is a signature element.

Why did my cinnamon bread turn out dense?

A dense texture typically results from overmixing the batter, which develops the gluten too much. Using old or expired baking soda can also prevent proper leavening, leading to a dense loaf. Always stir the batter until just combined, and ensure your baking soda is fresh.

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute. For each cup of buttermilk required, combine 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with enough regular milk to measure one cup. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

Is Amish Cinnamon Bread the same as Amish Friendship Bread?

No, they are different. Amish Friendship Bread utilizes a sweet starter that undergoes fermentation for several days before baking. This recipe is a convenient shortcut version, as it doesn’t require a starter or any waiting time.

Why did my cinnamon swirl sink to the bottom of the bread?

If the cinnamon swirl sinks, it’s usually because there was too much cinnamon-sugar mixture concentrated in one spot. It can also happen if the swirl was mixed in too deeply. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar in even layers and swirl it gently with a knife.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or ¼ cup of plain yogurt to maintain the moisture and texture of the bread.

Can I bake the bread in a single loaf pan instead of two?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the baking time. Expect it to take 60–70 minutes, and tent the top with foil halfway through baking to prevent it from burning.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?

Absolutely! Stir in about 1 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins for added texture and flavor. Add them to the batter after you’ve mixed the wet and dry ingredients.

How do I keep the bread moist?

To prevent the bread from drying out, avoid overbaking it. Remove the loaves from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Also, cooling them under a loose tent of foil can help retain moisture.

How long does homemade cinnamon bread last?

When stored properly, homemade cinnamon bread will keep for about 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

You May Also Like…

• Irresistible Amish Sour Cream Cornbread Recipe
• Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Flop Cake Recipe

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a simple recipe that feels like it belongs in every kitchen. It comes together quickly, makes two generous loaves, and fills the house with a comforting cinnamon aroma. Its tender crumb, sweet swirl, and no-yeast method make it a reliable favorite you can bake on a quiet afternoon or share with someone who needs a little comfort. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or save a loaf for later, this is the kind of homemade bread that becomes a part of your family routine.