Recipe for Amish Friendship Bread Without Starter Made Easy

Updated On: October 18, 2025

Amish Friendship Bread is a beloved treat known for its moist texture and sweet, cinnamon-infused flavor. Traditionally, it requires a sourdough starter that is shared among friends, creating a lovely baking tradition that brings people together.

But what if you don’t have a starter on hand? No worries!

This recipe for Amish Friendship Bread without starter is the perfect solution to enjoy this comforting bread anytime you want, without the wait or fuss of maintaining a starter. It’s simple, quick, and yields that same delicious taste that makes this bread a family favorite.

Whether you’re new to Friendship Bread or just looking for a shortcut, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. You’ll love the way the cinnamon and sugar swirl through the soft batter, creating a warm and inviting aroma in your kitchen.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a little bit of Amish tradition into your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish Friendship Bread recipe without a starter is a game-changer for busy bakers who want the classic taste without the time commitment. You don’t need to prepare or maintain a starter for days; instead, you can mix up the batter and bake within an hour.

It’s incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick homemade treat.

Moist and tender crumb: Thanks to the buttermilk and vegetable oil, the bread stays soft for days.

Sweet cinnamon flavor: The cinnamon-sugar swirl adds a delightful warmth and sweetness that’s irresistible.

Versatile and customizable: Easily add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to make it your own.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk and spoon or electric mixer
  • 9×5 inch loaf pan
  • Toothpick or cake tester
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
  3. Combine sugar and wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
  5. Add optional mix-ins: Fold in chopped nuts or raisins if using.
  6. Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  7. Layer the batter and cinnamon sugar: Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  8. Swirl the batter: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter to create a marbled effect.
  9. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t overmix the batter — it can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy one.”

  • Add fruit: Try folding in 1/2 cup blueberries, chopped apples, or shredded zucchini for a fresh twist.
  • Use brown sugar: Substitute half the white sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
  • Make muffins: Pour the batter into a muffin tin for quick, portable treats — bake for 18-22 minutes.
  • Glaze it: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top once cooled for extra sweetness.
  • Store properly: Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories 220 kcal
Carbohydrates 34 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Sodium 210 mg
Sugar 18 g
Fiber 1 g

Serving Suggestions

Amish Friendship Bread is delicious warm or at room temperature. For breakfast, enjoy a thick slice with a smear of butter or cream cheese.

It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

For a decadent dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with honey or maple syrup. You can toast slices lightly and spread with nut butters or jam for a quick snack.

This bread’s versatility makes it a welcome addition to any meal or gathering.

Conclusion

This Amish Friendship Bread recipe without a starter is a delightful shortcut for anyone craving the classic sweet and cinnamon-flavored bread without the fuss of maintaining a starter. It’s quick to prepare, forgiving in technique, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you enjoy it plain, studded with nuts or fruit, or topped with a glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Baking Amish Friendship Bread is more than just making bread — it’s about sharing warmth and tradition. Now you can enjoy this comforting loaf anytime without needing a starter.

Give it a try and make your kitchen smell like a cozy Amish bakery!

For more delicious homemade bread recipes, check out our Cinnamon Swirl Bread, Homemade Banana Bread, and Classic Zucchini Bread for inspiration.

📖 Recipe Card: Amish Friendship Bread Without Starter

Description: A simple and delicious Amish Friendship Bread recipe that skips the traditional starter. Enjoy moist, cinnamon-flavored bread perfect for sharing.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT1H5M

Servings: 1 loaf (10-12 slices)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In another bowl, beat eggs, then mix in oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
  5. Pour batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Slice and serve.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 42g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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