Introduction:
Cinnamon Bread is a warm, comforting treat that has been a staple in Amish kitchens for generations. Known for its soft, fluffy texture and a sweet, fragrant cinnamon swirl, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea. The Amish community is known for its traditional, simple, and hearty recipes, and this Cinnamon Bread is no exception. With its delicious balance of sweetness and spice, it’s a bread that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
2 cups warm milk (about 110°F)
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs
5 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 tsp salt
For the cinnamon filling:
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze (optional):
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp milk or water
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the yeast mixture:
In a bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
Make the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the cinnamon filling:
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Grease two loaf pans and set them aside for later.
Assemble the bread:
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each portion into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches.
Spread half of the softened butter over each rectangle of dough. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Roll each rectangle tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal. Place each rolled loaf into a greased loaf pan.
Let it rise:
Cover the pans with a clean towel and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes to an hour, until it puffs up and nearly doubles in size.
Bake the bread:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the glaze (optional):
While the bread is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread once it has cooled slightly.
Serve and enjoy:
Allow the bread to cool before slicing. Serve it fresh or toasted for an added treat.
Description:
This Cinnamon Bread is a true Amish delight, known for its sweet, cinnamon-swirled interior and soft, fluffy texture. It’s a perfect balance of buttery goodness and aromatic spice, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as part of a family breakfast or served at a festive gathering, this bread brings the wholesome, homemade charm of the Amish kitchen right to your table.
Tips:
Proof the yeast: Always make sure the milk is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold will not activate it properly.
Don’t overwork the dough: When kneading, be gentle. Over-kneading can result in a tough bread.
Resting the dough: Be patient and allow enough time for the dough to rise. It’s crucial to get that soft, airy texture.
Butter the loaf pans well: This will prevent the bread from sticking and help achieve a golden, crisp crust.
Glaze variation: You can replace the vanilla with almond or maple extract in the glaze for different flavors.
Variations:
Add-ins: Consider adding raisins or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Cinnamon Roll Twist: After rolling the dough and filling, cut the log into individual rolls and place them in a baking dish to make individual cinnamon rolls instead of a loaf.
Vegan Version: Replace the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk to make this bread vegan-friendly.
Fruit Filling: Experiment with other fillings like apple cinnamon, or even a streusel topping for a delicious variation.
Correction:
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as it could affect the bread’s softness. If the dough doesn’t rise as expected, make sure the yeast is fresh and the liquid wasn’t too hot.
Enjoy!
Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this Amish Cinnamon Bread is a cozy, sweet delight perfect for any time of day. It brings the comfort of home-baked goodness to your kitchen with every slice. Enjoy the warm cinnamon aroma and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with your loved ones!