Indulge in the Comforting Warmth of Amish Cinnamon Bread
Prepare to embark on a journey of nostalgia and comfort with our Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe. This timeless classic evokes memories of cozy kitchens and the aroma of freshly baked treats filling the air. With its soft, tender crumb and irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Join us as we delve into the art of baking this beloved Amish delicacy and uncover the secrets to its deliciousness.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 cups flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon + 1 teaspoon
- 2/3 cup sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- 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.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Stir in the milk and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour Batter into Pans:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Make Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
- Add Topping:
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the loaf pans, covering the surface.
- Bake:
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then carefully remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, slice the Amish Cinnamon Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Nuts or Raisins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or raisins to the batter before baking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the cinnamon-sugar topping by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Drizzle with Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Almond Flour Substitute: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a low-carb alternative.
- Sugar-Free Sweeteners: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of sugar in both the bread and topping to reduce the carb content.
- Coconut Oil: Substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a healthier fat option that aligns with keto principles.
In conclusion, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of comfort and warmth. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this bread never fails to delight the senses and evoke feelings of home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the sweet simplicity of Amish Cinnamon Bread.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread? A: Yes, you can freeze Amish Cinnamon Bread for later enjoyment. Allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: While you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the bread may be slightly different. Whole wheat flour tends to produce a denser loaf, so you may need to adjust the liquid or baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make Amish Cinnamon Bread without eggs? A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of Amish Cinnamon Bread by replacing the eggs with a suitable egg replacer or by using a combination of mashed bananas, applesauce, or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Keep in mind that the texture and structure of the bread may vary slightly.
Q: Can I add vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients for a hint of warmth and sweetness in the bread. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread and complements the cinnamon-sugar topping beautifully.