Amish White Bread: A Simple, Delicious, and Timeless Recipe
Delicious Amish White Bread is a classic, easy-to-make bread recipe that has been passed down through generations. Despite being made with just a few basic ingredients, this bread yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a slightly sweet flavor—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Delicious Amish White Bread
- 1 1/2 tbsp active dry yeast
- 6 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups warm water (divided)
How to Make Delicious Amish White Bread: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast (5-10 minutes)
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in 1/2 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes bubbly and frothy—this ensures the yeast is activated and ready for baking.
2. Mix the Dough (5-10 minutes)
Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of warm water, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil into the bowl. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough becomes firm and pliable. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
3. Knead the Dough (10 minutes)
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, which is essential for the perfect texture.
4. Let the Dough Rise (1 hour)
Grease a large mixing bowl with a little vegetable oil and place the dough in it. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the Oven (10 minutes)
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the bread once it’s shaped. This will take about 10 minutes.
6. Shape the Loaves (5 minutes)
Punch the dough down to release any air bubbles, then divide it into two equal loaves. Place each loaf into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. This should take 5 minutes.
7. Second Rise (30 minutes)
Cover the loaf pans with a clean cloth and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes or until it reaches the top of the pans. This final rise helps give the bread its fluffy texture.
8. Bake the Bread (30-35 minutes)
Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve (10-15 minutes)
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the pans. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Why You’ll Love Delicious Amish White Bread
- Soft & Fluffy: The bread is incredibly light and airy, making it perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples like yeast, flour, sugar, and water—this bread recipe is both easy and budget-friendly.
- Versatile: Great for toast, sandwiches, or served as a side with soups and stews.
- Timeless Flavor: With a slight sweetness, this classic Amish bread has a comforting, homemade taste that reminds you of simpler times.
- Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is easy to follow, making it great for those just starting to bake bread at home.
Tips for Perfect Amish White Bread
- Check the Yeast: Always make sure your yeast is fresh. If your yeast doesn’t froth up after mixing it with warm water, it’s likely expired.
- Water Temperature: The water should be warm to the touch but not hot. Too hot of water will kill the yeast, while too cold will prevent it from activating properly.
- Kneading: If the dough feels sticky while kneading, add a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency. A smooth, elastic dough is key for soft bread.
- Storage: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
While bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content, you can substitute with all-purpose flour. The texture might not be as fluffy, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I add other ingredients to the bread?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding garlic, herbs, or cheese to the dough for a savory twist.
How can I make this bread sweeter?
If you want a sweeter version, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Can I make this recipe into one loaf?
Yes, you can. Just bake it in a single large loaf pan (10×5 inches), but keep in mind the baking time may increase to about 40-45 minutes.
Conclusion: Delicious Amish White Bread for Every Occasion
This Amish White Bread is the epitome of comfort food—soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. Whether you’re enjoying it as toast in the morning, making a hearty sandwich, or simply savoring it with butter, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll find yourself making this bread over and over again!
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Soft Dinner Rolls: Light, buttery rolls that melt in your mouth—perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
- Honey Wheat Bread: A slightly healthier alternative with a naturally sweet flavor.
- Cinnamon Swirl Bread: A sweet, aromatic bread perfect for breakfast or a snack.
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