Amish Cinnamon Bread

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delicious and sweet bread that’s easy to make. The recipe often includes a starter or “sponge,” which adds a unique flavor to the bread. Here’s a simple recipe for Amish Cinnamon Bread:

Ingredients:

For the Starter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk

For the Bread:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Starter:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of milk. Stir until well combined.
2. Cover the bowl loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight. This is your starter.

2. Preheat and Grease:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans.

3. Make the Bread Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 cups of flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add the Starter:

1. Measure out 1 cup of the prepared starter and add it to the batter. Mix well.
2. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans.

5. Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the 2/3 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
2. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in the pans and swirl it with a knife or spoon.

6. Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Serve:

Slice and enjoy your delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread! This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

Feel free to share or freeze one of the loaves for later. Enjoy!