Amish Cinnamon Bread: The Irresistible No-Knead Treat
Introduction:
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a deliciously moist, sweet bread with a buttery cinnamon swirl that melts in your mouth. It’s a classic comfort food that is loved by many for its simplicity and heavenly flavor. This recipe is especially appealing because it doesn’t require any kneading. All you have to do is mix up the batter, bake, and enjoy. But beware, this bread is so good it might be gone within 15 minutes of coming out of the oven!
History:
The Amish are known for their traditional, homemade recipes that emphasize simplicity and wholesomeness. Amish Cinnamon Bread is a perfect example of this, featuring basic pantry ingredients that come together to create something truly special. This bread has been passed down through generations, becoming a beloved staple in many homes. The recipe has evolved over time, with variations popping up, but the essence remains the same—pure, comforting goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk plus 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the buttermilk: Slowly mix in the buttermilk (or the milk and vinegar/lemon juice mixture) until well combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture: In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
- Layer the batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
- Swirl it: Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Methods:
- Creaming: This method involves beating butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. It incorporates air into the batter, giving the bread a tender, cake-like texture.
- Swirling: Swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter creates a beautiful marbled effect and ensures that the sweet cinnamon flavor is evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Benefits:
- Ease of Preparation: No kneading is required, making this recipe accessible even for novice bakers.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatility: This bread can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Formation:
Amish Cinnamon Bread rises beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown crust with a tender crumb inside. The swirled cinnamon sugar adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor in every bite. The bread slices neatly, revealing the gorgeous marbled pattern inside.
Conclusion:
Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a slice of tradition and comfort. The ease of preparation, combined with its irresistibly delicious flavor, makes this bread a favorite in households everywhere. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving, be prepared for it to disappear quickly—sometimes within just 15 minutes!
Lovers of Amish Cinnamon Bread:
This bread is loved by both young and old alike. Its simple yet decadent flavor makes it a hit at family gatherings, bake sales, and holiday breakfasts. Those who enjoy the warmth and spice of cinnamon will find this bread to be absolutely irresistible.
Methods (Again):
To recap, the primary methods in this recipe are creaming the butter and sugar for a light and fluffy texture, and swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter for a marbled effect. These techniques are key to achieving the perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread.
Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to get baking! But be warned—this bread is so good, it might just be gone before it even has a chance to cool. Enjoy!