Amish Cinnamon Bread, often referred to as “Amish Friendship Bread,” is a delightful, sweet bread that embodies the simplicity and warmth of Amish baking traditions. The process of making this bread is unique as it involves a starter mix, a blend of flour, sugar, milk, and yeast, which ferments over a period of days. This starter, rich in flavor and history, is often shared among friends and family, hence the name “Friendship Bread.”
The bread itself is a soft, tender loaf, with a rich, buttery texture. It’s swirled with a generous amount of cinnamon sugar, creating layers of sweet, spicy goodness in every bite. The exterior of the bread is usually brushed with melted butter and then coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, resulting in a delightfully crisp, caramelized crust. As it bakes, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the air, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in the kitchen.
One of the unique aspects of Amish Cinnamon Bread is its versatility. While the traditional recipe includes just cinnamon and sugar, many bakers like to add their own twist with ingredients like chopped nuts, raisins, or even a ribbon of cream cheese filling. The bread is often enjoyed as a breakfast treat, paired with a cup of coffee or tea, but it’s equally delightful when served as a snack or dessert.
The process of making Amish Cinnamon Bread can be seen as a labor of love, as it requires patience and care, especially when nurturing the starter. This starter is often passed down through generations or shared among friends, adding an element of community and tradition to the bread-making process. The act of sharing the starter, along with the recipe, is a meaningful gesture in the Amish community, symbolizing friendship, generosity, and the joy of baking.
In summary, Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary tradition steeped in community, sharing, and simplicity. Each loaf tells a story of friendship and togetherness, making it a truly special treat to be savored and enjoyed.
Ingredients
For The Batter:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk or homemade buttermilk— 2 cups milk plus 2 tablespoons vinegar or
- lemon juice
- 4 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
For The Cinnamon/Sugar Mixture:
- 2/3 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
How To Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
ream together butter, 2 cups of sugar, and eggs. Add milk, flour, and baking soda. Put 1/2 of batter (or a little less) into greased loaf pans (1/4 in each pan). Mix in separate
bowl the 2/3 c sugar and cinnamon.
Sprinkle 3/4 of cinnamon mixture on top of the 1/2 batter in each pan. Add remaining batter to pans; sprinkle with last of cinnamon topping. Swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 min. or until toothpick tester come clean. Cool in pan for 20 minutes before removing from pan. Makes 2 loaves
Enjoy. The Family will love this recipe.
