Amish Friendship Bread and Starter Recipe

In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups sugar, 3 cups milk, and 3 cups flour until smooth. Cover and let it rest at room temperature.

Heat the oven to 175°C / 350°F. Grease a loaf pan; you can lightly flour it too so the bread releases easily.

Stir 1 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle a thin layer into the pan if you like a little extra coating.

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Whisk just until evenly combined.

Add flour, sugar, baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Fold until you don’t see dry streaks; don’t overmix.

Pour the batter into the pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar evenly over the top. If you want, lightly swirl the surface with a knife for a gentle ripple.

Bake for about 70 minutes. Start checking around minute 60; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then turn it out onto a rack to cool completely. Slice and serve; it cuts even better the next day.