Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly fluffy bread that’s perfect for everything from sandwiches to toast. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, known for its simplicity and versatility. With its tender crumb and golden crust, it’s easy to see why this bread has become a staple in many homes. Amish White Bread is easy to make and requires only basic pantry ingredients, making it a wonderful recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Why It’s Great
Amish White Bread is great because it’s a versatile, reliable recipe that produces consistently delicious results. The soft texture and mild sweetness make it perfect for both savory and sweet uses, whether you’re enjoying it with butter and jam or using it to make sandwiches. It’s also an excellent bread for French toast and bread pudding. The recipe is easy to follow, requiring minimal ingredients, and the bread stays fresh for several days, making it a great choice for everyday baking.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 5-6 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy and active.
- Mix the dough: Stir in the oil and salt. Gradually add 5 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the dough is still sticky, add more flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is soft, elastic, and no longer sticky.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a loaf and place them in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Second rise: Cover the loaves with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the pans.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Amish White Bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply served warm with butter. It can also be used for French toast, bread pudding, or croutons.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the loaves by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Helpful Notes
- Kneading: Proper kneading is key to achieving the soft texture of this bread. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
- Flour amount: Start with 5 cups of flour and add more as needed. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Too much flour can make the bread dense.
- Make it whole wheat: For a healthier option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The bread will be slightly denser but still soft and delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. You can skip the step of dissolving the yeast in water and instead mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
2. Can I add other ingredients like seeds or nuts?
Absolutely! You can mix in sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped nuts during the kneading process for added texture and flavor.
3. Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to make this recipe. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients, and use the dough cycle for kneading and the first rise. Then shape the loaves and bake them in the oven as directed.
4. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown, and it sounds hollow when tapped. You can also use a thermometer—the internal temperature should be around 190°F.
5. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 1/4 or 1/3 cup if you prefer a less sweet bread. The texture will still be soft and fluffy.
Amish White Bread is a classic, homemade bread recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for everyday use. Its soft texture and mild sweetness make it versatile enough for a variety of uses, from sandwiches to toast. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, homemade loaf that will fill your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked bread. Give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread from scratch!