Amish Friendship Bread is more than just a treat — it's a tradition of sharing and community. This recipe is a delightful blend of simple ingredients that results in a moist, flavorful loaf, perfect for any occasion. Let's dive into making this time-honored classic!
The star of this recipe is the combination of sugar and cinnamon, which gives the bread its signature sweet and spicy flavor. Vegetable oil keeps the loaf moist, while eggs add structure. The vanilla extract and instant vanilla pudding mix boost the flavor profile with a creamy undertone. Meanwhile, flour acts as the base, baking powder and baking soda provide leavening, and salt balances the sweetness. Lastly, milk ensures the batter is smooth and well-blended.
This bread is versatile! Try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. It also pairs well with a spread of cream cheese or butter for a delightful breakfast treat.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures it's ready to go once your batter is mixed. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat them together until you have a smooth mixture. This forms the base of your wet ingredients.
Next, stir in the vanilla extract and instant vanilla pudding mix. These ingredients add depth and richness to the flavor. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Sifting helps combine the dry ingredients and ensures there are no lumps.
Now, you're ready to combine everything. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. This helps to keep the batter smooth and prevents it from becoming too thick. Mix until everything is well combined.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Slide it into the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.