Amish Friendship Bread is a prime example of culinary warmth and tradition, embodying the spirit of community and sharing. Originating from the Amish, known for their skillful artistry in creating comfort foods, this sweet, cinnamon-spiced bread is unique not just for its delightful flavor, but also for the way it's made. The starter is a fermenting batter that gets passed from friend to friend, each adding ingredients and allowing it to proliferate before baking and sharing further. Imagine your delight as the aromas waft through your home, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection. The slow cooker version marries this traditional bread with the convenience and ease of modern cooking, making it an incredibly appealing recipe for those who savor homemade bread without the intensive labor.

Slow Cooker Amish Friendship Bread is quite versatile and can complement an array of sides. For a hearty breakfast, serve it alongside fresh fruit and a dollop of yogurt or a smear of cream cheese. If afternoon tea is more your scene, this bread pairs perfectly with your favorite blend, whether it be Earl Grey, Chamomile, or a robust Assam. And should you wish to indulge in dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate this simple bread to an exquisite sweet treat.

Servings: 8–10 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of Amish Friendship Bread Starter
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup canola oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 cup nuts or dried fruit (optional, for variation)

Directions:

1. Begin by lightly whisking the Amish Friendship Bread Starter in a large mixing bowl to ensure it is well combined.

2. Beat in the eggs and oil until the mixture becomes cohesive and set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps incorporate air and ensures a lighter bread texture.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet starter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Then stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon.

5. If desired, fold in your choice of nuts or dried fruit for an added layer of flavor and texture.

6. Prepare your slow cooker by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing the paper. This precaution prevents sticking and makes removal of the bread effortless.

7. Pour the batter into the slow cooker and spread evenly.

8. Cover and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as slow cookers vary in temperature.

9. Once done, carefully lift the bread out of the slow cooker using the parchment paper and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Variations & Tips:

- Turn this bread into a delightful holiday gift by incorporating seasonal ingredients such as pumpkin spice or peppermint extract.
- For those with dietary restrictions, the recipe can be adapted using gluten-free flour or by substituting the sugar with an alternative sweetener.
- Did you know that the starter can be frozen? If you can’t bake the bread immediately, simply freeze the starter and thaw it in the refrigerator when you're ready.
- To ensure even cooking, rotate the insert of the slow cooker halfway through the baking time if your model does not heat uniformly.

Enjoy this deeply satisfying Slow Cooker Amish Friendship Bread as a testament to the simplicity and joy inherent in the act of sharing food. Happy baking, and even happier sharing!

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove