Amish White Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a pat of butter. With its fluffy texture and simple ingredients, it’s an easy homemade bread recipe that’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
- Clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tbsp active dry yeast
- 1½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Make the Dough:
Stir in the salt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough comes together, knead it for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Second Rise:
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover again and let the dough rise for 30–40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
Bake the Bread:
Preheat your 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 from the pans and let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Recipe Tips
- Check Water Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is warm but not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
- For Softer Crust: Brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter right after baking.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What to Serve with Amish White Bread
This bread is perfect for sandwiches, French toast, or served alongside soups and stews. Try it with homemade jam or honey butter for a simple, sweet treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Bread flour will give the bread a slightly chewier texture, but it’s equally delicious.
2. Can I make this dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.
3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly into the flour.
Homemade Amish White Bread is a simple, foolproof recipe that yields irresistibly soft and delicious loaves every time!
Amish White Bread
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Two 9x5-inch loaf pans
- Clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water 110°F/45°C
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tbsp active dry yeast
- 1½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Make the Dough:
- Stir in the salt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough comes together, knead it for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape and Second Rise:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them into greased 9x5-inch loaf pans. Cover again and let the dough rise for 30–40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your 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 from the pans and let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For Softer Crust: Brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter right after baking.
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