Amish White Bread

Amish White Bread: A Timeless Recipe for Soft, Sweet Perfection

Amish White Bread is a classic, homemade bread known for its soft texture, slightly sweet flavor, and golden crust. This simple yet satisfying recipe has been passed down through generations and is cherished for its versatility. Whether used for sandwiches, toast, or enjoyed fresh with butter, Amish White Bread is a staple that brings warmth to any kitchen. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Ingredients

To make two loaves of Amish White Bread, you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
• 6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook attachment
• Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.

Step 2: Add Salt, Oil, and Flour

1. Stir in the salt and vegetable oil (or melted butter) to the yeast mixture.
2. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Start with 6 cups of flour.
3. Once the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl, you can determine if more flour is needed. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead by hand for about 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and spring back when poked.

Step 4: First Rise

1. Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it to coat the surface with oil.
2. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

1. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
3. Shape each portion into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle, rolling it up tightly, and pinching the seams closed.
4. Place each loaf seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Cover the loaf pans with the kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Allow the loaves to rise for 30–40 minutes, or until they double in size and the dough is just above the edge of the pans.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the loaves for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
3. For an extra-soft crust, brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 5–10 minutes.
2. Remove the loaves from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Amish White Bread

• Measure Flour Carefully: Too much flour can make the bread dense. Add flour gradually and stop when the dough is soft but manageable.
• Proofing Environment: If your kitchen is cold, create a warm environment for proofing by placing the dough near a warm oven or inside a microwave with a cup of hot water.
• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Honey White Bread: Replace sugar with honey for a richer, more natural sweetness.
• Herb Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a savory twist.
• Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Roll the dough out into a rectangle, spread with butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then roll it up before placing it in the loaf pans.

Conclusion

Amish White Bread is a timeless recipe that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying. Its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor make it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this bread is a foolproof way to fill your home with the comforting aroma of homemade goodness. Give it a try and enjoy the timeless pleasure of fresh, homemade bread!