Nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread wafting through your kitchen. If you’re craving a warm, sweet, and lightly spiced treat, you’re in for a delightful baking experience. This Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is an easy, no-yeast version of traditional Amish Friendship Bread, offering a soft, buttery texture with a delicious cinnamon-sugar swirl.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from the history of this beloved bread to step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe simple yet irresistibly good. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Table of contents
Introduction to Amish Cinnamon Bread
What is Amish Cinnamon Bread?
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, moist, and tender quick bread with a signature swirl of cinnamon sugar running through it. Unlike traditional yeast breads, this version relies on baking soda or baking powder, making it much easier to whip up in no time. The result? A light, fluffy, and perfectly spiced bread that melts in your mouth.
This delightful bread is often mistaken for Amish Friendship Bread, which is made using a fermented sourdough starter. However, this no-starter version is just as flavorful and requires no waiting time! You can bake it immediately and enjoy a slice fresh out of the oven.
The History and Tradition Behind This Sweet Bread
The Amish are well-known for their time-honored baking traditions, which emphasize simple ingredients, rich flavors, and homestyle cooking. This cinnamon-infused bread has its roots in Amish communities, where homemade baked goods are a staple in every household.
Originally, Amish Friendship Bread was shared among friends and family, with bakers passing along portions of sourdough starter. This variation, however, removes the need for a starter, making it a convenient, beginner-friendly alternative. It has since gained popularity across homes and bakeries worldwide, loved for its ease and irresistible taste.
Why This Recipe Stands Out Among Other Cinnamon Breads
So, what makes this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe a must-try? Here are a few reasons:
No Yeast Required – No waiting time or kneading involved!
Simple Pantry Ingredients – You likely have everything you need already.
Moist & Fluffy Texture – Thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and milk.
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl – Adds a sweet, caramelized crunch with every bite.
Versatile & Customizable – You can tweak the recipe with nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.
Whether you enjoy it warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert, this bread is bound to become a family favorite. Now that you know the history behind it, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need!
Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread
Essential Ingredients for a Traditional Taste
To make the perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe, you’ll need simple pantry staples. These ingredients come together to create a soft, buttery bread with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the bread, giving it structure and softness.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized cinnamon swirl.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential for making the bread rise without yeast.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Milk – Keeps the bread moist and tender. Whole milk works best, but any milk will do.
Eggs – Provide structure and help the bread hold together.
Butter – Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cinnamon – The key ingredient for that warm, spicy flavor.
Alternative Ingredients for Dietary Needs
Want to tweak the recipe to fit your diet? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions:
- For gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- For dairy-free: Swap butter for coconut oil and use almond or oat milk.
- For a healthier option: Replace half the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—baking!
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread from Scratch
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and half of the sugar. Stir until well blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy but well combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
Step 2: Making the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and the remaining sugar. This simple mixture will create the signature cinnamon swirl and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Step 3: Layering and Swirling for the Perfect Marbled Look
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
To create that beautiful swirl, use a knife to gently drag through the layers in a swirling motion. Don’t overdo it—you want distinct cinnamon ribbons, not a fully blended mixture.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection – Tips and Tricks
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step helps lock in moisture, making the bread even softer.
Now, you have a delicious homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe ready to enjoy! Next, we’ll explore fun variations to customize this classic treat.
Amish Cinnamon Bread Variations
No-Yeast Amish Cinnamon Bread Version
The beauty of this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is that it doesn’t require yeast, making it super easy and quick to prepare. However, you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste and texture preferences. If you prefer a fluffier loaf with a slightly chewy bite, try adding an extra egg or replacing part of the milk with Greek yogurt.
For an even softer texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Cake flour has a lower protein content, which results in a finer crumb and more delicate bite.
Cinnamon Bread with a Starter Dough (Friendship Bread Style)
If you love the traditional Amish Friendship Bread, you can modify this recipe by using a starter dough. A starter is a fermented mixture of flour, sugar, and milk that gives bread a slightly tangy flavor and a richer texture. To make the starter, mix:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
Cover and let it ferment at room temperature for 5-7 days, stirring daily. Once ready, use 1 cup of the starter in place of the baking powder and soda in the recipe.
Adding Nuts, Raisins, or Chocolate Chips for Extra Flavor
Want to take your Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe to the next level? Try mixing in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch. You can also fold in ½ cup of raisins for extra sweetness or chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
For a unique twist, swap out cinnamon for pumpkin spice during the fall season or add a touch of vanilla or almond extract for a richer flavor.
For another variation, check out this banana chocolate cake recipe, which combines rich flavors with a soft, moist texture similar to this cinnamon bread.
Storing and Freezing Amish Cinnamon Bread
Best Ways to Store for Freshness
Homemade bread tastes best when fresh, but proper storage can help keep it soft and moist for days. Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
If you live in a humid climate, store the bread in the refrigerator to prevent mold. However, refrigeration can dry it out, so always warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Can You Freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread? – The Right Method
Yes! This bread freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or microwave slices for 30 seconds to bring back the soft, fluffy texture.
How to Reheat Without Losing Moisture
To enjoy your Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe as if it were freshly baked:
- Microwave Method: Wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and heat for 15 seconds.
- Oven Method: Wrap in foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Toaster Oven Method: Toast slices lightly for a crispy exterior and soft interior.
Now that you know how to store and reheat your bread, let’s move on to some delicious serving suggestions!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The Best Ways to Enjoy Amish Cinnamon Bread
One of the best things about this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it warm, fresh out of the oven, or toast it lightly for a crispy edge. If you love a rich, buttery flavor, spread a little softened butter on a slice. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup on top.
Looking for a decadent dessert option? Serve this bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm cinnamon flavors pair beautifully with creamy textures, making it the perfect sweet treat.
Perfect Beverages to Pair With It (Coffee, Tea, or Milk)
This cinnamon-swirled bread is best enjoyed with a cozy drink. Pair it with:
- Freshly brewed coffee – The bold flavors balance the sweetness of the bread.
- Spiced chai tea – The cinnamon in the bread complements the warm spices in chai.
- Hot chocolate – For a comforting, indulgent pairing.
- Cold milk – A classic choice, especially for kids!
No matter how you serve it, this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is bound to be a family favorite. Now, let’s dive into some commonly asked questions!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why can’t you use metal with Amish Friendship Bread?
When making Amish Friendship Bread with a starter, it’s best to avoid metal bowls and utensils because the starter is a fermenting mixture that relies on natural yeast and bacteria. Metal can react with the acidity of the starter, potentially disrupting fermentation or altering the flavor. Instead, use glass, plastic, or ceramic bowls and wooden or plastic spoons.
Why is it called Amish Friendship Bread?
The name comes from the tradition of sharing the bread’s starter with friends and family. Bakers would pass along portions of the starter with instructions on how to continue the process, creating a chain of shared baking. While the recipe has ties to Amish-style baking, the modern Amish Friendship Bread gained popularity in the 1980s as a symbol of community and generosity.
What are the ingredients of cinnamon bread?
A basic cinnamon bread recipe typically includes:
- Flour – All-purpose or bread flour for structure.
- Sugar – White or brown sugar for sweetness.
- Butter or oil – Adds moisture and richness.
- Milk – Keeps the bread soft and fluffy.
- Eggs – Provide structure and binding.
- Baking powder/soda – Leavening agents for rise.
- Cinnamon – The key spice for flavor.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness.
- Yeast (optional) – Used in some recipes for a fluffy texture.
What is the famous bread at Dollywood?
Yes! Dollywood’s Cinnamon Bread is an iconic treat that draws visitors from all over. Freshly baked at The Grist Mill, this warm, buttery, pull-apart bread is generously coated in cinnamon sugar, creating a caramelized crust with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
Served with optional apple butter or vanilla icing, this bread has gained legendary status for its perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Many visitors even say it’s worth the trip alone! Whether you enjoy it as a snack or take a loaf home, Dollywood’s Cinnamon Bread is a must-try for any food lover.
Conclusion
Baking a homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is a simple yet rewarding experience. This no-yeast, quick bread delivers a soft, moist texture with a delightful swirl of sweet cinnamon sugar in every bite. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter, paired with coffee, or transformed into a dessert with ice cream, this bread is perfect for any occasion.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of pantry staples and no special baking skills. Plus, with so many variations—like adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even using a fermented starter—you can truly make this recipe your own.
Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions, it’s time to preheat that oven and start baking. One slice of this comforting, cinnamon-infused bread is all it takes to make your kitchen feel like home.
If you love cinnamon-infused baked goods, you may also enjoy trying this chocolate banana bread recipe for another warm and comforting homemade treat.