Name: Homemade Amish Friendship Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter (or substitute); 2/3 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for pan coating and topping)

Few things in the kitchen spark as much joy as slicing into a warm loaf of Homemade Amish Friendship Bread. With its cinnamon-sugar swirls and delicate vanilla aroma, this humble quick bread transforms a simple moment into something memorable. It’s the kind of recipe that connects generations, often shared among friends and family in handwritten notes or passed-along starters.

What makes Amish Friendship Bread truly special isn’t just the taste (though it’s delightfully moist and comforting) but the spirit of giving that comes with it. Traditionally made from a sweet sourdough starter that gets divided and shared, this bread brings people together with each batch. Whether you’re starting your own tradition or baking it solo, this is a heartwarming treat worth savoring.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your batter, let’s gather everything needed to ensure smooth baking and a golden, tender loaf:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two medium to large mixing bowls to handle the starter, batter, and cinnamon-sugar mix separately. These help keep ingredients properly blended without crowding.
Whisk and Spatula: A sturdy whisk is essential for evenly combining your wet ingredients, while a silicone spatula helps scrape down every last bit of your delicious batter.
Loaf Pans: Traditional Amish Friendship Bread is baked in loaf form. Use 8×4 or 9×5-inch loaf pans for an even bake and a pretty rise. Make sure they’re well-greased and floured.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking. Proper measuring tools ensure your flour isn’t packed and your sugar is just right.
Toothpick or Cake Tester: For checking doneness without slicing into your beautiful loaf too soon. If it comes out clean, your bread is baked through.

Having the right tools doesn’t just make the job easier—it sets you up for baking success.

Ingredients for the Homemade Amish Friendship Bread

Each ingredient plays a role in bringing out the nostalgic flavor and tender crumb that makes Amish Friendship Bread so beloved:

All-Purpose Flour: The structural foundation of the bread. It creates the perfect texture that’s soft but holds together.
Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and caramelization around the edges.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These work as leavening agents, helping the loaf rise and stay fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
Ground Cinnamon: The signature spice swirl that gives the bread its warmth and charm.

Vanilla Pudding Mix (Instant): This secret ingredient gives the bread an extra boost of moisture and depth.
Eggs: Bind the batter and give it richness.
Vegetable Oil: Ensures a moist, tender crumb without overpowering the flavor.

Milk: Helps thin the batter slightly and makes the bread soft.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely aromatic note that complements the cinnamon.
Amish Starter (or substitute): The heart of the recipe, bringing mild tang and sweetness. If you don’t have the starter, a buttermilk-based substitute works in a pinch.

How To Make the Homemade Amish Friendship Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pans & Cinnamon Sugar

Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans well and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar to coat the bottom and sides. This forms the bread’s flavorful crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together flour, pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution and no clumps.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate larger bowl, beat the eggs, then add the sugar, oil, milk, vanilla extract, and Amish starter. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until no dry streaks remain—don’t overmix!

Step 5: Pour & Swirl

Pour half the batter into each prepared pan. Sprinkle more cinnamon sugar over the top. Use a butter knife to gently swirl it into the batter for that classic marbled look.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Slice, serve, and share! This is the perfect bread for gifting or freezing for later.

How to Serve and Store Homemade Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread is as versatile in its use as it is heartwarming. Serve warm slices for breakfast with a pat of butter or enjoy it as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with twine.

To store, let the bread cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices or whole loaves in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm slightly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without the Amish starter?

Yes! While the starter gives it a signature tang and texture, you can use a substitute like buttermilk mixed with a bit of yeast and sugar. It won’t be identical, but it still turns out delicious.

Why is my bread dense or not rising properly?

This usually means the batter was overmixed or your baking soda/powder is expired. Be gentle with mixing and always check freshness of leaveners.

Can I use other flavors of pudding mix?

Absolutely. Vanilla is classic, but feel free to try butterscotch, banana cream, or even chocolate for a fun twist.

What’s the best way to gift this bread?

Wrap cooled loaves in parchment or wax paper, tie with baker’s twine, and add a handwritten tag. You can even attach a note with the recipe or a portion of starter if you’re sharing it traditionally.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. Just be sure to mix gently and monitor baking time.

Is this bread overly sweet?

It’s sweet, but not cloying. You can reduce the sugar slightly or adjust the cinnamon sugar topping if you prefer a lighter touch.

Want More Bread & Loaf Recipes to Try?

If you love this homemade Amish Friendship Bread, here are a few more comforting and delicious ideas you’ll want to explore from Life With Olivia:

Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread for pillowy bites perfect with curries.
Cinnamon Donut Bread if you’re craving more cinnamon-spiced goodness.

Lemon Blueberry Loaf for a bright and tangy twist.
Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake when you’re in the mood for fruity and festive.
Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze for cozy, spiced perfection.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl in extra cinnamon? Add a glaze on top? Maybe even made muffins instead of loaves?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Homemade Amish Friendship Bread

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 65 minutes

Yield: 2 loaves
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Homemade Amish Friendship Bread is a sweet, moist loaf with warm cinnamon sugar swirls and a soft vanilla-scented crumb. Made with a simple batter and often shared among friends using a sweet sourdough starter, this recipe brings people together with every slice. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with your morning coffee, it’s an old-fashioned treat full of comfort.

Instructions

1. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans and coat the inside with a dusting of cinnamon sugar. Set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.

3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add in the sugar, oil, milk, vanilla extract, and Amish starter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Pour half of the batter into each prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar generously on top.

6. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the top of the batter for a marbled effect.

7. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Slice and serve or wrap for gifting.