Delicious & Easy Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread (No Starter Needed!)

Prepare to be enchanted by the incredible flavor and surprisingly simple preparation of this Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread. Forget the traditional multi-day starter process; this recipe delivers all the comforting, old-fashioned goodness with an ingenious buttermilk twist, making it accessible to any home baker, any time! Imagine a tender, moist crumb reminiscent of a soft pound cake, generously layered with a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl, and crowned with a delightful crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s truly an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro looking for a shortcut, this “no-starter” version of Amish Friendship Bread is a game-changer. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a heartwarming gift for friends and family. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the aromatic magic of homemade cinnamon bread!

The Enduring Appeal of Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread holds a special place in many hearts, often referred to as the “chain letter of baking.” Traditionally, it begins with a sourdough starter, lovingly nurtured and passed from friend to friend, along with a recipe for a sweet, cake-like bread. The recipient uses a portion of the starter for their own baking and then shares the remaining starter with others, continuing the cycle of friendship and deliciousness.

For those who remember the sourdough craze, the aroma of a baking Amish Friendship Bread brings back a wave of nostalgia. It was a communal experience, a tangible way to share warmth and connection. While the classic starter method offers a unique depth of flavor, it can be time-consuming and requires ongoing maintenance. This is where our simplified version shines, capturing the essence of that cherished flavor profile without the commitment of a traditional starter.

This recipe is a blast from the past, updated for modern convenience, allowing you to enjoy that amazing Amish Cinnamon Bread taste without the starter hassle. It’s perfect for busy schedules, impromptu baking sessions, or simply when you crave that comforting flavor right now.

Why This “No-Starter” Version is Your New Favorite

This Easy Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread recipe stands out for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, its incredible simplicity. You’ll only need a handful of common pantry ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. The prep time is minimal, typically just 10-15 minutes, before your fragrant loaf is ready for the oven.

Beyond convenience, the flavor and texture are truly exceptional. This bread boasts a wonderfully tender and fluffy crumb, incredibly moist and rich, almost like a pound cake. What elevates it further is the delightful double dose of cinnamon sugar: a generous swirl baked right into the center of the loaf, and a glistening, crunchy coating on top that caramelizes to perfection during baking. This combination creates a sensory experience that is both comforting and exciting.

It’s an ideal recipe for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple weekend breakfasts. It also makes a fantastic edible gift. Imagine sharing a warm, homemade loaf with friends and family – their smiles will be your sweetest reward!

The Magic of Buttermilk: Your Starter Substitute

The secret to achieving the tender crumb and slight tang typically associated with traditional Amish Friendship Bread, but without a starter, lies in the clever use of buttermilk. Buttermilk’s acidity reacts with baking soda to create a light, airy texture and a subtle depth of flavor that mimics the fermentation notes of a sourdough starter.

Don’t have buttermilk? No problem! It’s incredibly easy to make your own “sour milk” substitute at home with ingredients you probably already have. Here’s how:

• Easy DIY Buttermilk: For every 1 cup of buttermilk required, simply combine 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of your preferred milk (dairy or non-dairy works).
• Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it slightly curdles. This activated “sour milk” is a fantastic substitute for store-bought buttermilk and will work wonders in this recipe.

Crafting Your Cinnamon Masterpiece: Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards baking this amazing bread. Each component plays a vital role in creating its signature taste and texture. Pay attention to the details, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfect loaf every time.

For the Delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread:

• Unsalted Butter, softened: Using softened butter is crucial for creaming properly with sugar, which incorporates air and contributes to the bread’s light and fluffy texture. If you’re looking to reduce fat, you can substitute a portion of the butter with unsweetened applesauce (e.g., ¼ cup butter and ¼ cup applesauce).
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness, moisture, and aids in browning the crust.
• Egg, large: Acts as a binder, adds richness, and helps with the structure and tenderness of the bread.
• Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that complements the cinnamon beautifully, adding depth and warmth to the overall taste.
• Buttermilk: As discussed, this is our “starter” substitute. Its acidity tenderizes the crumb and reacts with the baking soda for perfect leavening. Remember, you can easily make your own if you don’t have it on hand.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of the bread. Measure by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off for accuracy, avoiding a dense loaf.
• Baking Soda: Our primary leavening agent, which requires an acid (like buttermilk) to activate and produce carbon dioxide, creating a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the bread. Don’t skip it!

For the Irresistible Cinnamon/Sugar Topping & Swirl:

• Granulated Sugar: Provides the sweet crunch for the topping and the delightful sweetness in the inner swirl.
• Cinnamon: The star spice! Ground cinnamon delivers that classic warm, aromatic flavor that defines this bread.

Step-by-Step Guide: Baking Your Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread

Follow these straightforward steps to create a perfectly baked, incredibly flavorful Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread. Precision in baking leads to delicious results!

Prep Work:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature from the moment your bread goes in, leading to even baking.
2. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. You can use butter, baking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Crafting the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl & Topping:

1. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for your topping and swirl. Set this fragrant mixture aside; it’s going to add incredible flavor and texture.

Mixing the Amish Bread Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or by hand, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is vital for incorporating air into the batter, which contributes to the bread’s tender texture.
2. Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat well until everything is fully combined and smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can develop the gluten too much, resulting in a tough bread. A few streaks of flour are acceptable.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Pour and spread half of the bread batter evenly into your prepared 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Generously sprinkle about three-quarters of your reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture over this first layer of batter.
3. Carefully spread the remaining bread batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover perfectly; gently coax it into place.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the batter. This will create that irresistible crunchy crust.
5. Bake for 48-52 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
6. Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when removed.
7. After partial cooling, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the bread. Invert the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. Cooling completely ensures the best texture and prevents a gummy interior.

Serving Suggestions & Enjoyment

This Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread is truly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. For breakfast, a slice with a smear of butter or cream cheese is pure bliss. The warmth from a quick microwave zap can bring out its freshly baked taste and make it extra comforting. Pair it with your morning coffee or tea for a perfect start to the day.

It’s also an excellent choice for an afternoon pick-me-up or a simple, satisfying dessert. Serve it alongside fresh fruit, or for an extra decadent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Beyond personal enjoyment, this bread makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift, especially during the holidays. Wrap it in cellophane with a ribbon, and you have a present straight from the heart.

Storing Your Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread

To keep your Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread fresh and delicious for as long as possible, follow these storage guidelines:

• Room Temperature: Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for 2-3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before storing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: For extended freshness, tightly wrap the cooled loaf first in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread at room temperature. You can also slice the bread before freezing, then wrap individual slices for convenient grab-and-go portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Amish Friendship Bread

What is Amish Friendship Bread?

Traditionally, Amish Friendship Bread refers to a sweet, dense, cake-like bread made from a sourdough starter that is shared among friends. The starter itself is a fermented mixture of flour, sugar, milk, and yeast. This particular recipe offers a convenient “no-starter” version that captures the beloved flavors and texture using buttermilk as a substitute.

Can I truly make it without a starter?

Absolutely! This recipe is specifically designed to bypass the need for a traditional sourdough starter. By using buttermilk (or a homemade sour milk substitute) in combination with baking soda, we achieve a similar tender crumb and tangy depth of flavor without the multi-day fermentation process.

What does buttermilk do in this recipe?

Buttermilk plays a dual role. Firstly, its acidity reacts with the baking soda to create carbon dioxide, which acts as a leavening agent, making the bread light and fluffy. Secondly, the tanginess of buttermilk contributes to the bread’s complex flavor, mimicking the subtle sour notes of a traditional starter.

How long does this Amish Cinnamon Bread last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this bread will stay fresh and delicious for 2-3 days. For longer storage, it can be tightly wrapped and frozen for up to 1-2 months.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to this bread?

Yes, this recipe is quite adaptable! While the cinnamon-sugar swirl is classic, you can experiment with additions like chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), raisins, chocolate chips, or even a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of spice. Add them along with the flour mixture or swirl them into the batter before baking.

More Easy & Delicious Recipes You’ll Love!

If you enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this Amish Friendship Cinnamon Bread, you’ll surely love exploring these other fantastic quick bread, pound cake, and dessert recipes. We love finding shortcuts to make life easier and tastier!

• Awesome Country Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
• Easy Double Chocolate Banana Bread
• Sugar Cream Pie
• Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Pound Cake Loaf {Vanilla Bean Frosting}
• Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Delight
• Apple Cinnamon Bread
• Gooey Caramel Chocolate Ganache Brownies
• Crumbl Churro Cookies – Copycat Recipe
• “CopyCat” Starbucks Pumpkin Pound Cake
• Sinful ‘Cinnabon’ Cinnamon Roll Cake
• Starbuck’s CopyCat Lemon Loaf
• Starbuck’s Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

Holiday & Favorite Dessert Recipes to Share with Friends & Family

• Amish Country Pumpkin Custard Pie
• Sour Cream Banana Bread
• Cranberry Quick Bread with Orange Glaze
• Country Cinnamon Swirl Buttermilk Loaf

Don’t forget to check out one of our readers’ favorites, our Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars! They are absolutely the best! And for another amazing Amish-inspired treat, you’ll definitely want to snag the recipe for our incredible Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie. Both are absolute winners!

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Recipe adapted from Eat Cake for Dinner