Introduction
Amish Cinnamon Bread, a delightful treat passed down through generations, offers a taste of simple pleasures and comforting warmth. This recipe, often shared within Amish communities, emphasizes wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation, resulting in a moist, fragrant loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. Discover the secrets behind this timeless favorite and learn how to bake your own piece of Amish tradition.
Main Sections
The Allure of Amish Baking
Amish baking traditions are rooted in resourcefulness and simplicity. They prioritize readily available ingredients and time-tested methods. Amish Cinnamon Bread embodies this philosophy, showcasing how a few basic pantry staples can create an extraordinary baked good. The absence of artificial flavors and preservatives allows the natural flavors of cinnamon, butter, and yeast to shine through.
Understanding the Ingredients
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the bread.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast is essential for leavening, creating a light and airy texture.
- Milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the bread and provides food for the yeast.
- Butter: Melted butter contributes to richness, flavor, and tenderness.
- Eggs: Eggs add structure, richness, and color to the dough.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the star of the show, creating the signature warm and spicy flavor.
- Salt: Salt enhances the other flavors and controls the yeast activity.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
- Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt.
- Mix the Dough: Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 1-inch thick slices.
- Second Rise: Arrange the slices in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking Perfection
- Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is active for optimal rising.
- Don’t overheat the milk: Warm milk should be lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Proper proofing: Give the dough ample time to rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
- Even baking: Rotate the loaf pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Storage: Store leftover Amish Cinnamon Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Variations and Additions
- Raisins or Nuts: Add raisins or chopped nuts to the cinnamon filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the cooled bread for added sweetness and richness.
- Apple Cinnamon: Incorporate diced apples into the cinnamon filling for a fruity twist.
Conclusion
Amish Cinnamon Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to a simpler way of life, a testament to the power of community, and a delicious treat that brings joy to any occasion. By following this recipe and embracing the spirit of Amish baking, you can create a homemade loaf that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that will transport you to the heart of Amish country.
