Exclusive Amish-Style Cinnamon Bread Recipe

 Exclusive Amish-Style Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish-Style Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Amish-style cinnamon bread, often referred to as friendship bread, is cherished for its tradition of sharing sourdough starter. However, this Amish-style cinnamon bread recipe by Christina Musgrave, the genius behind Mashed, simplifies the process by eliminating the need for any starter. This quick bread recipe is remarkably straightforward, whisking you from the mixer to the oven in no time.

Musgrave emphasizes, "I love how effortlessly this recipe comes together; it's not only simple but incredibly delicious!" In true Amish fashion, this sweet loaf boasts an indulgent cinnamon sugar swirl on both the top and nestled within the bread. The result is not only visually captivating, with a sugary, crunchy top, but every slice holds a delightful twist. Pair it with a cup of coffee to vanquish that mid-morning slump and satiate your sweet cravings.

Prepare the ingredients for this Amish-style cinnamon bread recipe:

For the bread batter, you'll need unsalted butter, an egg, sugar, whole milk, all-purpose flour, baking soda, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. As for the delightful cinnamon swirl and topping, all you require is extra cinnamon and sugar.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Egg, and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, combine the butter, egg, and 1 cup of sugar until creamy.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Batter Ingredients

Incorporate milk, flour, baking soda, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Prepare the topping by combining ½ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaf

Pour half of the cake batter into a greased loaf pan.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top and swirl.

Step 7: Complete the Loaf Assembly

Add the remaining batter, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar, and swirl.

Step 8: Bake the Loaf

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool for 20 minutes, then slice and serve.

Wondering about alternative pans for Amish-style cinnamon bread? While a loaf pan works excellently, creating individual portions in muffin tins is another option. "The bake time will differ, but this recipe can easily adapt to muffin tins," notes Musgrave. Muffins typically bake in less time than a loaf.

Alternatively, square or round cake pans are suitable, but closely monitor doneness with a toothpick. Regardless of the pan used, aim for the toothpick to emerge clean from the center.

How should you serve Amish-style cinnamon bread? This delicious bread doesn't require any enhancements, but Musgrave enjoys it with a touch of salted butter and a side of coffee. Spread the butter while the bread is still warm, allowing it to melt over the surface. Tea or a glass of milk also pairs nicely with this sweet treat. If your sweet tooth is extra active, consider a thin layer of hazelnut butter, though the bread itself is delightfully sweet. For the ultimate sweet indulgence, accompany it with hot chocolate.

How should you store Amish-style cinnamon bread? Musgrave advises that this recipe yields 8 portions, and for any leftovers, it's vital to maintain freshness. "I store leftovers in an airtight container," Musgrave recommends. You can keep it on the counter or refrigerate it, depending on your preference. A quick zap in the microwave can restore room temperature freshness if desired. In hot summer months, refrigeration may be more suitable to preserve the bread's quality.