Amish Cinnamon Bread – A Sweet and Buttery Classic


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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
  3. Add in the buttermilk (or milk + vinegar substitute) and mix well.
  4. 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

  1. In a separate small bowl, mix together ¾ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaves

  1. Pour half of the batter (or slightly less) into the two prepared loaf pans.
  2. Sprinkle ¾ of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter in both pans.
  3. Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  4. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. 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.