18 Delicious Amish Friendship Bread Recipes Perfect for Sharing

Posted on April 23, 2025

There’s something magical about Amish Friendship Bread—the way a simple starter turns into a warm, sweet loaf that’s meant to be shared. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to this beloved tradition, we’ve gathered 18 irresistible recipes that go beyond the classic. From cinnamon-swirled delights to chocolatey twists, these treats are perfect for gifting (or keeping all to yourself!). Ready to bake up some joy? Let’s get started!

Classic Amish Friendship Bread

Classic Amish Friendship Bread

This sweet, cinnamon-kissed bread is a beloved tradition—perfect for sharing with friends (or keeping all to yourself!).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Add 1 ½ cups sugar, 2 cups flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 2 tsp cinnamon, and the pudding mix. Stir just until combined (don’t overmix). Fold in walnuts if using.
  4. Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The pudding mix gives this bread an irresistibly moist, tender crumb—almost like a cross between cake and banana bread. It’s even better the next day!

Tip: For extra flair, sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar before baking.

Chocolate Chip Amish Friendship Bread

Chocolate Chip Amish Friendship Bread

This tender, cinnamon-kissed loaf is studded with melty chocolate chips—a sweet twist on the classic Amish bread that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, sift 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  4. Gently stir in 1 cup chocolate chips, then pour batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (avoid hitting melted chips). Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The magic here? The starter gives the bread an irresistible moist crumb, while pockets of chocolate make each slice feel like dessert.

Tip: For extra decadence, sprinkle coarse sugar over the batter before baking—it adds a delightful crunch!

Cinnamon Swirl Amish Friendship Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Amish Friendship Bread

This cozy, cinnamon-kissed loaf is the ultimate way to use your Amish friendship bread starter—swirled with a buttery brown sugar ribbon for extra warmth in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for swirl)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and ½ tsp salt. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Mix ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon in a small bowl; dollop half over the batter. Repeat layers, then swirl gently with a knife.
  5. Bake for 50–55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.

The magic here? That cinnamon ribbon stays gooey for days—making it even better toasted with a pat of butter.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the top with turbinado sugar before baking.

Pumpkin Spice Amish Friendship Bread

Pumpkin Spice Amish Friendship Bread

This cozy, spiced-up version of classic Amish Friendship Bread is like a hug in loaf form—warm, fragrant, and perfect with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the Amish Friendship Bread starter, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt. Stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The pumpkin keeps this bread incredibly moist, while the warm spices meld beautifully with the tangy sweetness of the starter. It’s even better the next day—if it lasts that long!

Tip: For extra indulgence, swirl in a spoonful of cream cheese mixed with 1 tbsp sugar before baking.

Banana Nut Amish Friendship Bread

Banana Nut Amish Friendship Bread

This Banana Nut Amish Friendship Bread is a cozy, spiced loaf with a tender crumb and crunchy walnuts—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter, mashed bananas, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whisk 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, then pour batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The cinnamon-kissed bananas and toasty walnuts make every slice taste like a hug—plus, the starter ensures an extra-moist texture that keeps for days.

Tip: For deeper flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Lemon Poppy Seed Amish Friendship Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Amish Friendship Bread

This bright, citrusy twist on classic Amish friendship bread is bursting with zesty lemon and a delightful crunch from poppy seeds—perfect for gifting or enjoying with your morning coffee.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, eggs, and 1/2 cup milk until smooth.
  3. Fold in the flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tbsp poppy seeds, lemon zest, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until just combined (don’t overmix).
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The tender crumb and tangy lemon glaze (if added) make this bread irresistibly moist—almost like a cross between cake and quick bread. Tip: For extra zing, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp lemon juice) after cooling.

Blueberry Amish Friendship Bread

Blueberry Amish Friendship Bread

This tender, cake-like bread is studded with juicy blueberries and has just the right touch of cinnamon—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed with 1 tbsp flour)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans or one large bundt pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the Amish Friendship Bread starter, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup milk until smooth.
  3. Add 1 cup sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 2 tsp cinnamon. Mix well.
  4. Gently fold in 2 cups flour until just combined, then carefully stir in the floured blueberries.
  5. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The cinnamon-sugar crust contrasts beautifully with the bursts of berry sweetness—it’s like a cozy blueberry muffin in loaf form!

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle the batter with a mix of 1 tbsp sugar and 1/2 tsp cinnamon before baking.

Apple Cinnamon Amish Friendship Bread

Apple Cinnamon Amish Friendship Bread

This cozy, spiced loaf is like a hug in bread form—swirled with tender apples and just the right amount of cinnamon warmth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold in 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt until just combined. Gently stir in the diced apple.
  4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle evenly with 1/4 cup brown sugar.
  5. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The brown sugar topping caramelizes into a crackly crust, while the juicy apple bits keep every slice irresistibly moist. Tip: For extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter!

Strawberry Amish Friendship Bread

Strawberry Amish Friendship Bread

This Strawberry Amish Friendship Bread is a sweet, tender loaf bursting with juicy berries—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat with coffee.

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
  • 1/4 cup turbinado sugar (for topping)
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt until just combined.
  4. Gently stir in 1 cup diced fresh strawberries, then pour batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle 1/4 cup turbinado sugar evenly over the top.
  5. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch to every slice, while the strawberries keep the bread moist for days. Tip: For extra flavor, toss the strawberries in 1 tbsp flour before folding them in—this prevents sinking!

Zucchini Amish Friendship Bread

Zucchini Amish Friendship Bread

This tender, spiced zucchini bread is a sweet twist on the classic Amish Friendship Bread—perfect for using up summer squash and sharing with neighbors.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup grated zucchini (packed, excess moisture squeezed out)
  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold in 1 cup grated zucchini.
  4. In another bowl, sift 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet batter until just combined. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (if using).
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

The zucchini keeps this bread incredibly moist, while the cinnamon and starter add a nostalgic depth—like a hug from your grandma’s kitchen.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the top with turbinado sugar before baking.

Carrot Cake Amish Friendship Bread

Carrot Cake Amish Friendship Bread

This Carrot Cake Amish Friendship Bread is a warmly spiced twist on the classic, packed with shredded carrots and a hint of cinnamon for a cozy, homemade treat.

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups finely shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar, then gently fold in 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt until just combined.
  4. Fold in shredded carrots and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (if using), then pour batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The tender crumb and caramelized edges make this loaf irresistible, especially when topped with a smear of cream cheese frosting. Tip: For extra moisture, soak the shredded carrots in a bowl of water for 10 minutes, then squeeze dry before adding to the batter.

Peach Cobbler Amish Friendship Bread

Peach Cobbler Amish Friendship Bread

This cozy twist on classic peach cobbler bakes up bubbly and golden, with a tender Amish friendship bread topping that soaks up all the juicy fruit goodness.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 6 medium)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter (unfed)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss peaches with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and cinnamon in a 9-inch pie dish. Let sit 15 minutes while you prepare the batter.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together Amish friendship bread starter, vegetable oil, milk, and egg until smooth. Stir in baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Pour batter evenly over peaches (it will sink slightly—that’s okay!). Sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
  4. Bake 45-50 minutes until topping is deeply golden and fruit bubbles at the edges. Cool 10 minutes before serving.

The magic here? The bread starter creates a custardy layer beneath its crackly sugar crust, making every bite both lush and textured.

Tip: For extra caramelization, broil the cobbler for 1-2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye!

Raspberry Almond Amish Friendship Bread

Raspberry Almond Amish Friendship Bread

This sweet, tender loaf is studded with juicy raspberries and nutty almond flavor—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries (lightly tossed in 1 tbsp flour)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp almond extract until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Gently fold in the raspberries (tossed in 1 tbsp flour) to prevent sinking. Pour batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
  5. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The almond extract and fresh raspberries create a nostalgic bakery-style flavor, while the tender crumb stays moist for days. Tip: For extra crunch, toast the sliced almonds before sprinkling them on top.

Coconut Pineapple Amish Friendship Bread

Coconut Pineapple Amish Friendship Bread

This tropical twist on Amish Friendship Bread is like a mini vacation in every bite—sweet pineapple and creamy coconut take the classic loaf to paradise.

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup canned crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar, then gently fold in 1 cup crushed pineapple and 1/2 cup shredded coconut.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  5. Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The pineapple keeps the bread irresistibly moist, while toasted coconut flakes on top add a sunny crunch. Tip: For extra coconut flavor, brush warm loaves with a mix of 1 tbsp coconut milk and 1 tbsp honey.

Cherry Vanilla Amish Friendship Bread

Cherry Vanilla Amish Friendship Bread

This Cherry Vanilla Amish Friendship Bread is a sweet, tender loaf bursting with juicy cherries and a hint of warm vanilla—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (for topping)
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold in 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt until just combined. Gently stir in cherries.
  4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with 1 tbsp turbinado sugar. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The turbinado sugar topping adds a delicate crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cherry-studded crumb. A drizzle of vanilla glaze would take it over the top!

Tip: If using frozen cherries, toss them in 1 tbsp flour first to prevent sinking.

Pecan Pie Amish Friendship Bread

Pecan Pie Amish Friendship Bread

This twist on classic Amish Friendship Bread swaps in rich, buttery pecans and a caramel-like filling for a dessert that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread starter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • ½ cup pecan halves (for topping)
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the Amish Friendship Bread starter, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup vegetable oil until smooth.
  3. Beat in 3 eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, and 2 cups flour. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients.
  5. Fold in 1 cup chopped pecans, then pour the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange ½ cup pecan halves on top.
  6. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with ½ cup caramel sauce.

The caramel seeps into the bread as it cools, creating a gooey pecan pie-like center that’s pure magic. Serve slightly warm for the best experience!

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them in.

Maple Walnut Amish Friendship Bread

Maple Walnut Amish Friendship Bread

This cozy, cinnamon-kissed bread gets a sweet upgrade with maple syrup and crunchy walnuts—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup Amish friendship bread starter, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold in 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 cup chopped walnuts.
  4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  5. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The maple syrup caramelizes slightly as it bakes, giving the bread a glossy, crackly top that contrasts beautifully with the tender crumb.

Tip: For extra maple flavor, brush warm bread with an extra tablespoon of syrup right after baking.

Gluten-Free Amish Friendship Bread

Gluten-Free Amish Friendship Bread

This tender, cinnamon-kissed bread is a gluten-free twist on the classic—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend (like Bob’s Red Mill)
  • ½ cup almond flour
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum (omit if your blend includes it)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 medium)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and dust lightly with gluten-free flour.
  2. Whisk together 1 cup gluten-free flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 tsp xanthan gum, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp cinnamon in a bowl.
  3. In another bowl, beat ½ cup sugar, ½ cup oil, 3 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth. Stir in mashed banana.
  4. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (don’t overmix). Pour into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The banana keeps this bread irresistibly moist, while the almond flour adds a subtle nutty depth—no one will guess it’s gluten-free!

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the batter with cinnamon sugar before baking.

Conclusion

With 18 delightful Amish Friendship Bread recipes, there’s something here for every baker to love! Whether you’re sharing a loaf with friends or savoring it at home, these treats are sure to bring joy. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment below, and share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the baking love. Happy baking!

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