Amish Cinnamon Bread is a wonderfully soft, sweet, and buttery quick bread with a beautiful cinnamon-sugar swirl running through every slice. It has a tender crumb, a lightly crisp cinnamon topping, and that comforting homemade flavor that makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon cup of coffee.
This easy Amish cinnamon bread recipe does not require yeast, so there is no waiting for dough to rise. Everything comes together with simple pantry ingredients, making it an ideal homemade treat when you want something warm, fragrant, and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you have enjoyed Amish cinnamon bread before or you are making it for the first time, this recipe delivers the classic cinnamon-sugar flavor and soft texture everyone loves. The cinnamon layer in the middle creates a delicious swirl, while the buttery batter keeps the bread moist and tender.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Bread
- Easy to make: No yeast, complicated techniques, or special equipment are required.
- Soft and tender: The rich batter creates a moist, bakery-style crumb.
- Full of cinnamon flavor: Cinnamon sugar is layered throughout the bread for delicious flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for breakfast: Serve a warm slice with coffee, tea, or milk.
- Great for sharing: It makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends, neighbors, and family.
- Make-ahead friendly: The bread stores well and can also be frozen.
- Family favorite: The sweet cinnamon swirl makes this recipe especially popular with kids and adults.
What Is Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Amish cinnamon bread is a sweet quick bread made with a simple vanilla-flavored batter and cinnamon sugar. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, this bread does not use yeast and does not need to be kneaded or allowed to rise.
The cinnamon sugar is typically layered between portions of the batter and sprinkled over the top before baking. As the bread cooks, the sugar melts into the batter and creates a beautiful cinnamon swirl with a slightly crisp, caramelized topping.
The result is somewhere between a classic cinnamon loaf, coffee cake, and homemade sweet bread. It is especially delicious when served slightly warm with butter.
Amish Cinnamon Bread Ingredients
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make this easy cinnamon bread. For the best results, use fresh ingredients and measure the flour accurately.
For the Bread
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Top
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar from the prepared mixture
- 1 tablespoon melted butter, optional
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray. You can also line the bottom and two long sides with parchment paper to make removing the finished bread easier.
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before the bread goes in. A properly heated oven helps the quick bread rise evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
Set aside a couple of tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar for sprinkling over the top of the loaf. The rest will be used to create the cinnamon swirl inside the bread.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Place the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy.
This step is important because incorporating air into the butter helps create a lighter texture. Use softened butter rather than melted butter for the best results.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined.
If the mixture looks slightly curdled after adding the eggs, do not worry. It will come together when the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps distribute the baking soda and salt evenly throughout the flour, which prevents concentrated pockets of either ingredient in the finished bread.
Step 6: Add the Flour and Buttermilk
Add about one-third of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix gently. Add half of the buttermilk and mix again.
Continue alternating the dry ingredients and buttermilk, ending with the flour mixture. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop too much gluten and make the bread dense or tough instead of soft and tender.
Step 7: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar
Spread approximately half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the surface gently with a spatula.
Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter.
Spread the remaining batter carefully over the cinnamon sugar layer. Try to cover the cinnamon sugar completely so the loaf has a defined cinnamon center.
Use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers a few times. Do not over-swirl, because you want visible ribbons of cinnamon throughout the bread.
Step 8: Add the Cinnamon Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top of the loaf. For an extra buttery finish, you can lightly drizzle melted butter over the cinnamon sugar before baking.
The topping will become fragrant and slightly crisp as the bread bakes.
Step 9: Bake
Place the loaf pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
If the top begins to brown too quickly while the center is still baking, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil during the final portion of baking.
Step 10: Cool Before Slicing
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then carefully lift it out and transfer it to a wire rack.
Let it cool further before slicing. Although it can be tempting to cut into the loaf immediately, allowing it to cool helps the crumb set and makes cleaner slices.
Tips for Making the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread
Use Softened Butter
Room-temperature butter creams much better with sugar than cold butter. Leave the butter out for about 30 to 60 minutes before starting, depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
Do Not Overmix
Once the flour is added, mix only until no large streaks of dry flour remain. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
Measure Flour Correctly
Too much flour is one of the easiest ways to make quick bread dry. For the most accurate measurement, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level the top with a knife rather than scooping directly from the flour container.
Use Fresh Baking Soda
Baking soda helps the bread rise and contributes to its tender texture. If your baking soda has been sitting in the pantry for a very long time, replace it with a fresh container.
Do Not Over-Swirl
A few gentle swirls are enough. Too much swirling can blend the cinnamon sugar completely into the batter and eliminate the beautiful cinnamon ribbons.
Can I Use Regular Milk Instead of Buttermilk?
Yes. Buttermilk adds tenderness and a slight tang to the bread, but you can make a simple substitute if you do not have any on hand.
To make a quick buttermilk substitute, add about 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup, then add enough milk to reach 1 cup. Stir and allow it to sit for approximately 5 minutes before using.
The homemade substitute works well in this recipe and is a convenient option when you want to bake without making an extra trip to the store.
How to Get a Perfect Cinnamon Swirl
The key to a beautiful cinnamon swirl is layering. Start with a portion of the batter, add cinnamon sugar, then cover it with the remaining batter.
When spreading the second layer of batter, work gently so you do not completely disturb the cinnamon sugar underneath. The batter may seem thick, but this is normal.
After layering, insert a butter knife into the batter and make a few gentle figure-eight motions. This creates attractive cinnamon ribbons without mixing everything together.
Delicious Variations
Amish Cinnamon Bread with Walnuts
Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts to the batter or sprinkle them over the cinnamon layer. Walnuts add a delicious crunch and pair beautifully with cinnamon.
Pecan Cinnamon Bread
Replace the walnuts with chopped pecans for a richer, buttery flavor. Pecans are especially delicious when combined with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Add approximately 1/2 to 1 cup of finely diced peeled apples to the batter. Choose a firm apple that holds its shape during baking.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Bread
Replace some or all of the white sugar in the cinnamon swirl with packed brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a deeper caramel-like flavor and creates an especially delicious center.
Raisin Cinnamon Bread
Fold 1/2 cup of raisins into the batter for a classic cinnamon-raisin flavor.
Maple Cinnamon Bread
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to the batter and reduce the buttermilk slightly if necessary to maintain the correct consistency.
Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Bread
Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet cinnamon-and-chocolate combination that is perfect for dessert.
What to Serve with Amish Cinnamon Bread
This sweet cinnamon bread is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to serve it.
- Serve warm with softened butter.
- Pair it with coffee for an easy breakfast.
- Serve with hot tea for an afternoon snack.
- Add fresh berries for a light brunch plate.
- Serve with whipped cream for dessert.
- Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for brunch.
- Toast slices and spread them with butter.
Easy Vanilla Glaze for Cinnamon Bread
If you want to make your Amish cinnamon bread even sweeter, a simple vanilla glaze is an excellent addition.
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together in a small bowl until smooth. Add a few drops of milk if the glaze is too thick, or add a little more powdered sugar if it becomes too thin.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cinnamon bread before slicing and serving.
How to Store Amish Cinnamon Bread
Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
At room temperature, the bread is best enjoyed within approximately 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and heat.
How to Refrigerate Cinnamon Bread
You can refrigerate the bread if you prefer. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out and store it in an airtight container.
Before serving, allow slices to come close to room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave. Refrigerated quick bread can become slightly firmer, so gentle reheating helps restore its soft texture.
Can You Freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Yes, Amish cinnamon bread freezes very well.
For best results, allow the bread to cool completely. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place individual slices in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Frozen slices can be thawed at room temperature or warmed gently in the microwave.
For the best quality, use frozen bread within approximately 2 to 3 months.
How to Reheat Cinnamon Bread
Individual slices can be warmed in the microwave for about 10 to 20 seconds. The exact time depends on the thickness of the slice and the power of your microwave.
You can also toast slices lightly in a toaster oven. Add a little butter after reheating for an especially delicious breakfast treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Cold Butter
Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugar and can make the batter less uniform.
Overmixing the Batter
Mixing too much after adding flour can make the bread dense. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are incorporated.
Using Too Much Cinnamon Sugar
Although cinnamon sugar is delicious, too much sugar in the center can create a wet or overly sticky layer. Use the recommended amount for the best balance.
Slicing the Bread Too Soon
Freshly baked bread needs time to set. Letting it cool before slicing helps prevent the center from becoming gummy or falling apart.
Overbaking
Overbaking can make the loaf dry. Begin checking the bread around the 50-minute mark and use a toothpick to test the center.
Can I Make This Recipe in Mini Loaf Pans?
Yes. Amish cinnamon bread works beautifully in mini loaf pans and makes an excellent homemade gift.
Because smaller loaves bake faster, begin checking them well before the full baking time listed for a standard loaf. The exact time will depend on the size of your pans.
Mini cinnamon loaves are perfect for holiday baking, bake sales, brunches, and edible gifts.
Can I Double This Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Yes. You can double the ingredients to make two standard loaves. Prepare the batter as directed and divide it evenly between two greased loaf pans.
Try to keep the amount of batter in each pan similar so both loaves bake at approximately the same rate.
Is Amish Cinnamon Bread a Breakfast or Dessert?
It can be either. The sweet cinnamon flavor makes it suitable for breakfast, brunch, afternoon snacks, or dessert.
For breakfast, serve it with coffee, tea, fruit, or yogurt. For dessert, add vanilla glaze, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why Does My Cinnamon Bread Have a Dense Center?
A dense center can happen for several reasons. The most common causes are overmixing the batter, using too much flour, underbaking the loaf, or allowing the bread to cool improperly.
Make sure your flour is measured accurately and avoid opening the oven repeatedly while the bread is baking. Always test the center with a toothpick before removing the loaf from the oven.
Why Did My Cinnamon Swirl Sink?
A cinnamon sugar layer can sometimes sink because sugar becomes heavy as it melts. A moderate amount of cinnamon sugar and a properly thick batter help keep the swirl distributed throughout the loaf.
Make sure the batter is not excessively thin and avoid adding too much filling to the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Amish cinnamon bread without a mixer?
Yes. An electric mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar easier, but you can make this bread by hand with a sturdy whisk or wooden spoon. Make sure the butter is properly softened.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.
Can I use brown sugar?
Yes. Brown sugar can be used in the cinnamon swirl or as part of the batter. It gives the bread a deeper caramel flavor.
Can I add nuts?
Absolutely. Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent additions and add a pleasant crunchy texture.
Can I add apples?
Yes. Finely diced apples can turn this recipe into a delicious apple cinnamon quick bread.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes. Bake it the day before serving, allow it to cool completely, and store it tightly covered at room temperature.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If wet batter remains on the toothpick, continue baking and check again after several minutes.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
Yes. You can adapt the batter into cinnamon muffins. Reduce the baking time significantly and begin checking early because muffins bake much faster than a full loaf.
Best Occasions for Amish Cinnamon Bread
This homemade cinnamon bread is perfect for almost any occasion. Bake it for a lazy weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, family gatherings, bake sales, or simply when you want your kitchen to smell like warm cinnamon and butter.
It also makes a thoughtful homemade food gift. Wrap a cooled loaf in parchment paper and tie it with kitchen twine for a simple presentation.
Why Homemade Cinnamon Bread Is So Special
There is something incredibly comforting about baking a loaf of cinnamon bread from scratch. The combination of butter, vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma while the loaf bakes.
Unlike many complicated baked goods, this recipe is approachable enough for beginners while still producing a result that looks and tastes special. The cinnamon swirl makes every slice beautiful, and the tender texture makes it difficult to stop at just one piece.
Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe Card
Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 standard loaf
Servings: 10–12 slices
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for the cinnamon swirl
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Cream the softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Add the remaining batter and gently swirl with a knife.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool further before slicing.
Final Thoughts
This BEST Amish Cinnamon Bread is the kind of homemade recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite. It is simple enough for an ordinary weekday but special enough for holidays, brunches, and homemade gifts.
With a soft buttery crumb, fragrant cinnamon-sugar swirl, and lightly crisp topping, every slice is packed with comforting homemade flavor. Enjoy it warm with butter, pair it with your favorite coffee, or drizzle it with vanilla glaze for an extra-sweet treat.
If you love classic homemade quick breads, this cinnamon bread is definitely one to keep in your recipe collection.
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