Amish Cinnamon Bread: A Simple Recipe for a Delicious Treat
Amish cooking is known for its simplicity and delicious flavors, and this Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is no exception. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a moist, flavorful bread perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack. The warm spices and sweet cinnamon swirl make it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick and easy bake.
- For the Bread:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This detailed guide ensures you achieve perfectly risen and delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread.
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let it stand for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial for ensuring your bread rises properly.
Step 2: Combining Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining granulated sugar, egg, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix well to combine all the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Adding the Flour
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
Step 4: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (with the light on) can create a good rising environment.
Step 6: Preparing the Cinnamon Swirl
While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon swirl filling. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Step 7: Shaping and Filling the Loaf
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the dough.
Step 8: Rolling and Shaping
Tightly roll the dough up from the long side, starting at one of the shorter ends. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the roll in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together and place them in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 9: Second Rise (Proofing)
Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 10: Baking
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Cooling and Enjoying
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade Amish Cinnamon Bread!
Tips for the Perfect Loaf:
- Yeast Quality: Using fresh yeast is key to a successful rise.
- Warmth is Key: Ensure your milk is the correct temperature for yeast activation, and provide a warm environment for rising.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to a tough loaf.
- Proper Cooling: Cooling the bread completely on a wire rack prevents sogginess.
This Amish Cinnamon Bread recipe is a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible to everyone, while the delicious result will impress even the most discerning bread lover. Enjoy!
