Indulge in the comforting aroma and soft texture of freshly baked Amish White Bread with this simple and delightful recipe. Rooted in tradition, this bread is a testament to the wholesome goodness of homemade baked goods. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a spread of butter, Amish White Bread is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into the steps to craft this classic loaf.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 6 cups bread flour
Instructions:
Proof the Yeast:
In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water.
Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit until it forms a creamy foam, typically 5 to 10 minutes.
Incorporate Oil and Salt:
Once the yeast is proofed, mix in vegetable oil and salt until well combined.
Add Flour:
Gradually add bread flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition.
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic. This usually takes a few minutes of kneading.
First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into a well-oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
Shape the Loaves:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
Knead the dough briefly and then divide it into two equal portions.
Shape each portion into loaves and place them into two well-oiled 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Second Rise:
Allow the shaped loaves to rise again until they have topped the pans by about an inch, which typically takes around 30 minutes.
Preheat and Bake:
While the loaves are rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Once the loaves have risen, bake them in the preheated oven until they turn golden brown, usually about 30 minutes.
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Serving Tips:
- Enjoy Fresh: Amish White Bread is best served fresh out of the oven when it’s still warm and fragrant. Slice it while it’s still slightly warm for a soft and fluffy texture.
- Toasted Treat: For a delightful breakfast or snack, toast slices of Amish White Bread and top them with your favorite spreads like butter, jam, or honey.
- Sandwiches Galore: Use this bread to make sandwiches with your favorite fillings. Whether it’s classic combinations like turkey and cheese or creative gourmet options, Amish White Bread provides the perfect base for your sandwich creations.
- Bread Baskets: Serve slices of Amish White Bread in a bread basket alongside soups, salads, or pasta dishes to complement your meal with freshly baked goodness.
Storage Tips:
- Cool Completely: Allow the baked loaves to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain freshness.
- Wrap Well: Once cooled, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect them from air exposure and keep them moist.
- Store Properly: Store the wrapped loaves in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can dry out the bread.
- Freeze for Future Use: If you’re not planning to consume the bread within a few days, consider freezing it for longer-term storage. Slice the bread, wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw slices or loaves as needed at room temperature or in the toaster.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Amish White Bread stays fresh and delicious, ready to be enjoyed whenever you crave a taste of homemade goodness.
FAQS
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for bread flour in this recipe if you don’t have bread flour on hand. However, keep in mind that bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps create a chewier texture in bread. Using all-purpose flour may result in a slightly softer loaf, but it will still yield delicious Amish White Bread.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best way to determine if the bread is done baking is by checking its internal temperature. A fully baked loaf of bread typically registers between 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit (88-93 degrees Celsius) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. Additionally, the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If unsure, you can also visually inspect the bread for a golden brown crust.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the bread dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Amish White Bread by adding nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or other ingredients to the dough before baking. Simply fold in your desired additions during the kneading process, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Keep in mind that adding extra ingredients may slightly alter the texture and rise of the bread, so adjust accordingly.
How long does homemade Amish White Bread stay fresh?
Homemade Amish White Bread typically stays fresh for 2-3 days when stored properly at room temperature in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To extend its freshness, you can also freeze the bread for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it at room temperature before serving. Avoid storing the bread in the refrigerator, as it can dry out the loaf.
Conclusion:
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own bread, and with this Amish White Bread recipe, you can enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade bread right in your own kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the taste of tradition with every slice of freshly baked Amish White Bread.
📖 Recipe
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Amish White Bread
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 2 loaves
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover delicious recipes crafted with care and precision. From savory mains to delectable desserts, our recipes are designed to inspire your culinary journey. Dive into the world of flavors and aromas with our easy-to-follow instructions and handy tips. Elevate your cooking game and delight your taste buds with every bite!
Ingredients
2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
⅔ cup white sugar
1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 ½ teaspoons salt
6 cups bread flour
Instructions
- Dissolve sugar in warm water, then stir in yeast. Proof until yeast foams.
- Mix in oil and salt, then gradually add flour, kneading until smooth.
- Allow dough to rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Punch dough down, divide, shape into loaves, and let rise again.
- Preheat oven and bake until golden brown.
Notes
For a softer crust, brush loaves with melted butter after baking.
Experiment with adding seeds or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish
