Amish White Bread

Welcome to our guide on making Amish White Bread. This classic bread is known for its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. Let’s get started with this delightful and versatile recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare Amish White Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 5 1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. Combine Water and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water.
2. Add Yeast: Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Add Oil and Salt: Stir the vegetable oil and salt into the yeast mixture.
2. Mix in Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all 6 cups of flour, so add gradually until the dough is no longer sticky.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

1. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Punch Down Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Shape: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle, then rolling it up tightly from the short end. Pinch the seams to seal.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Second Rise: Place the shaped loaves into two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the pans.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
3. Cool: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Sweet Option: For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1 cup.
• Honey Variation: Substitute part or all of the sugar with honey for a different flavor.
• Whole Wheat: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Herb Addition: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an herbed bread.

Conclusion

Amish White Bread is a delicious and versatile bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures soft, fluffy loaves with a slightly sweet flavor. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful bread with your family and friends.

Key Takeaway

Amish White Bread offers a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, and more. This versatile recipe can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of homemade Amish white bread!