Amish White Bread

Name: Amish White Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 1/3 cup white sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 3 cups all-purpose flour

Isabella

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Classic Amish white bread offers a soft, slightly sweet texture that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven with a spread of butter. Its easy preparation and delightful flavor make it a go-to recipe for both beginner and seasoned bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Fluffy Texture: This bread has a tender crumb that’s ideal for slicing and stays moist for days.

Simple Ingredients: With just pantry staples, it’s easy to whip up without a special trip to the store.

Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side for soups and stews.

Beginner-Friendly: The straightforward process ensures success, even for those new to bread baking.

Customizable: Easily tweak the sweetness or add mix-ins like herbs or seeds.

Ingredients

1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)

1/3 cup white sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

3 cups all-purpose flour

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Stir in the vegetable oil and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

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

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until the dough rises just above the edge of the pan.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Servings: 12 slices

Calories: 145 kcal per slice

Variations

Whole Wheat Option: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Honey-Sweetened: Replace the sugar with honey for a naturally sweet flavor.

Herb Bread: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory twist.

Seed Topping: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or oats on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

Cinnamon Swirl: Roll the dough with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet breakfast loaf.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in slices or as a whole loaf for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To refresh, warm slices in a toaster or wrap the loaf in foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

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FAQs

How can I tell if the yeast is active?

Active yeast will foam and create a frothy layer on top of the warm water within 5-10 minutes. If this doesn’t happen, the yeast may be expired or the water temperature may not be right.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour can be used for a slightly chewier texture. However, all-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming dense?

Ensure the dough is kneaded sufficiently to develop gluten and allow enough time for both rises. Over-flouring can also result in a denser loaf.

Why did my bread rise too slowly?

Cooler room temperatures can slow the rising process. Try placing the dough in a warm spot, like near a sunny window or in an oven with just the light turned on.

Can I make this recipe in a bread machine?

Yes, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients to your bread machine. Use the basic white bread setting for best results.

Conclusion

Amish white bread is a timeless classic that’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying to enjoy. With its soft texture and lightly sweet flavor, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re making it for sandwiches or savoring it warm with butter, the results are always delicious. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comfort of homemade bread.

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