1. Preheat Your Oven:
1.1. Set the Temperature:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
2.1. Mix the Swirl Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside; it will be used to create the cinnamon swirl in the bread.
3. Make the Bread Batter:
3.1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3.2. Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3.3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3.4. Add Dry Ingredients Alternately with Buttermilk:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition.
4. Assemble the Bread:
4.1. Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture over the batter.
4.2. Add the Remaining Batter:
- Spoon the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer and carefully spread it out to cover.
4.3. Swirl the Cinnamon-Sugar:
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
5. Add the Topping:
5.1. Mix the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
5.2. Sprinkle the Topping:
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the top of the bread.
6. Bake the Bread:
6.1. Bake:
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
6.2. Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
7.1. Slice and Serve:
- Once cooled, slice the Amish Cinnamon Bread and serve. This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also enjoy it with a spread of butter or a drizzle of honey.
Tips for Perfect Amish Cinnamon Bread:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Swirl Variations: For an extra indulgent twist, try adding some chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Amish Cinnamon Bread is a comforting, nostalgic treat that’s sure to delight anyone who tries it. The combination of tender bread with a sweet, spiced swirl makes it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as a sweet snack in the afternoon!