Amish Cinnamon Bread
Some recipes feel like a hug in food form, and Amish Cinnamon Bread is one of them. The first time I made it, my kitchen smelled like the inside of a cozy country bakery—warm, buttery, and filled with that sweet cinnamon spice that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea. I’m grateful for recipes like this, ones that bring simple joy and can be shared with friends, neighbors, or just your own hungry crew.

This bread is soft, tender, and ribboned with cinnamon sugar swirls that give every bite a little burst of sweet comfort. It’s the kind of bake that’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or wrapped in parchment with a bow for a thoughtful gift. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or rare ingredients—just the basics from your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bakery flavor at home – All the charm of an Amish bakery without leaving your kitchen.
- Simple ingredients – Likely everything is already in your pantry.
- Perfect for sharing – Makes two loaves, so one for you and one to gift.
- Freezer-friendly – Keep one loaf ready for future cravings.
What Does It Taste Like?
Think soft, tender pound cake crossed with the cozy warmth of cinnamon toast. The sugar-cinnamon swirl melts into the bread, creating little pockets of caramelized sweetness. The crumb is light yet moist, and every slice is just as delicious plain as it is spread with butter.
Benefits of This Recipe
- No yeast, so no rising time needed.
- Makes two loaves—built-in sharing!
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 2 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice, let stand 5–10 min)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Tools You’ll Need
- 2 standard loaf pans
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Swap half the flour for whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
- Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Use brown sugar in the cinnamon mix for a deeper caramel note.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two loaf pans with butter or non-stick spray.
- Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Mix in buttermilk. In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking soda, then gradually stir into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, stir together ⅔ cup sugar and cinnamon.
- Layer the Bread
- Spread ¼ of the batter into each loaf pan, sprinkle with ¼ of the cinnamon sugar, repeat layers, and finish with cinnamon sugar on top.
- Bake
- Bake 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Serving Suggestions
- Toast slices and spread with butter.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon break.
- Top with cream cheese glaze for a dessert-worthy twist.
Tips for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread
- Don’t overmix once you add flour—this keeps the crumb tender.
- Use fresh cinnamon for maximum flavor.
- For a neater swirl, use a knife to gently marble the layers before baking.
Storage Instructions
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in plastic, then foil.
FAQ
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, simply halve all ingredients and bake one loaf.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine works in a pinch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk + vinegar for buttermilk.
Conclusion
Amish Cinnamon Bread is one of those recipes that proves homemade really is better. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and fills your home with the smell of comfort. Whether you keep both loaves or give one away, you’ll be making this again and again.
More Sweet Cinnamon Recipes to Try
- Classic Cinnamon Rolls
- Snickerdoodle Loaf
- Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
📌 Tried this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest so we can see your cinnamon-swirled masterpieces!
Nutritional Information (per slice): ~260 calories, 10g fat, 38g carbs, 4g protein
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