There's something truly special about Amish Cinnamon Bread—a soft, moist, and sweet loaf swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling. This homemade bread has all the warmth and coziness of a bakery-style treat, yet it's surprisingly simple to make in your own kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this cinnamon bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Unlike traditional yeast breads, this recipe requires no kneading or proofing, making it quick and easy to prepare. The result? A beautifully marbled, buttery loaf with a caramelized cinnamon crust that’s absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Amish classic.
Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Bread
For the Bread Batter:
- 1 cup butter – Softened, for a rich, buttery texture
- 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the bread and adds moisture
- 2 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure
- 2 cups buttermilk – Creates a tender crumb (or substitute with 2 cups milk + 2 teaspoons vinegar)
- 4 cups flour – The foundation of the bread
- 2 teaspoons baking soda – Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- ¾ cup sugar – Creates a sweet, caramelized swirl
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice
How to Make Amish Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Add in the buttermilk (or milk + vinegar substitute) and mix well.
- Gradually stir in the flour and baking soda, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
- In a separate small bowl, mix together ¾ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaves
- Pour half of the batter (or slightly less) into the two prepared loaf pans.
- Sprinkle ¾ of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter in both pans.
- Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔ No Yeast Required – Skip the proofing and waiting time.
✔ Incredibly Moist – Thanks to the butter and buttermilk.
✔ Beautiful Cinnamon Swirls – A bakery-style presentation made easy.
✔ Versatile & Freezer-Friendly – Enjoy fresh or save for later.
Pro Tips for the Best Amish Cinnamon Bread
- Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smooth, well-mixed batter.
- Don't overmix the batter after adding the flour—this keeps the bread light and fluffy.
- Swirl, don’t stir! Use a gentle motion to create pretty cinnamon patterns.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Wrap and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with butter – A classic way to enjoy a fresh slice.
- Toasted with cream cheese – A tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
- Paired with coffee or tea – The perfect cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
- As a gift – Wrap a loaf in parchment paper with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Cinnamon Bread is an easy, no-fail recipe that delivers bakery-quality flavor right from your oven. Whether you’re making it for your family or sharing it with friends, its soft texture and irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl make it a true crowd-pleaser.
Once you try it, you'll see why this sweet, buttery loaf is a timeless favorite in the Amish community—and now, in your kitchen too! Bake a batch today and enjoy the simple, homemade goodness.