Amish White Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a bread recipe that’s as comforting as a warm hug, this Amish White Bread Recipe is just what you need! There’s something truly special about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This recipe is a family favorite of mine, perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up some sandwiches or simply enjoy a warm slice with butter.

What makes this Amish White Bread recipe so appealing is its soft texture and delightful flavor. Whether it’s a Sunday brunch with family or a cozy dinner at home, this bread fits right in. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can always have a loaf on standby for those unexpected guests or late-night cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have fresh bread ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft texture, making it perfect for sandwiches or toast.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake extra loaves and freeze them for busy days ahead.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweetness from the sugar gives this bread a lovely taste that pairs well with any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Amish White Bread. You might already have most of these in your pantry! Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that fluffy texture we all love.

For the Dough

• 1 cup water (110F)
• 1 pinch powdered ginger (optional – activates yeast)
• 1 cup milk (110F)
• 2/3 cup sugar (you can use less if you prefer)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (melted coconut oil works great too! Just let it cool to 100F)
• 5-1/2 cups bread flour (you may need a little more or less depending on humidity)
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

One of the best things about this Amish White Bread Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber and nutrients.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Sweeten It Up: Add raisins or cranberries for a sweet touch that makes delightful breakfast toast.
• Cheesy Goodness: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella before baking for a savory option.

How to Make Amish White Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and powdered ginger (if using). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because active yeast ensures your bread rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk and sugar until dissolved. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the vegetable oil. Stir everything gently until well combined. The warmth of these ingredients helps create that soft texture we all adore!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the bread flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring continuously. This helps prevent lumps from forming and ensures an even consistency throughout your dough.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Once combined, transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten, giving your bread that desirable chewy bite!

Step 5: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size. This rising time allows air bubbles to form inside the dough, ensuring it’s light and fluffy when baked.

Step 6: Shape Loaves

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into two equal parts and shape each piece into loaves. Place them into greased loaf pans, cover again with the towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your loaves have risen nicely, bake them in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove your loaves from the oven and brush them with melted butter on top. Let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. Slicing into warm bread is one of life’s simple pleasures!

Enjoy every fluffy slice of this Amish White Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Amish White Bread Recipe

Baking bread can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Amish white bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use warm water and milk: Ensuring that your liquids are at 110F helps activate the yeast efficiently, leading to a better rise and fluffier texture.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough for about 10 minutes develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewy texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Let it rise in a warm place: Yeast loves warmth! Allowing your dough to rise in a cozy spot will help it double in size more effectively.
• Check your flour measurement: Bread flour can vary in absorbency. Start with 5-1/2 cups but add a little more if the dough feels too sticky or wet; you want it to be smooth but not tacky.
• Cool before slicing: Letting your bread cool completely on a wire rack prevents it from becoming gummy when sliced. Patience is key!

How to Serve Amish White Bread Recipe

Amish white bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways! From classic sandwiches to simple toast, this bread will delight everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and flavor when serving slices of bread alongside meals.
• Butter spread: Offering an herb-infused or garlic butter spread can elevate plain bread into a gourmet experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing is comforting and perfect for dipping. The smoothness of the soup complements the soft texture of the bread beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while balancing the richness of the bread with their earthy flavors.
• Hummus or Dips: A side of hummus or a variety of dips makes for a delightful appetizer or snack option, perfect for spreading on freshly sliced bread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Amish white bread like never before! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Amish White Bread recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a couple of loaves over the weekend and have fresh bread ready for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaves in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, slice before freezing for easy access.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, toast individual slices directly in a toaster.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for this Amish White Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute part of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. However, it may change the texture slightly, making it denser. A good ratio is half whole wheat and half bread flour.

How do I know when my Amish White Bread is done baking?

Your bread is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a thermometer; it should read about 190°F (88°C) inside.

Can I reduce the sugar in this Amish White Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar to your preference. The yeast needs some sugar to activate, but using less won’t significantly impact the final product’s flavor or texture.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising well, check that your yeast is active by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar first. If it foams after about 5-10 minutes, your yeast is good! Also, ensure that your environment is warm enough for rising; consider placing it near a warm oven or in a sunny spot.

How long does this bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, this bread will last about 3 days. If frozen, it can stay fresh for up to three months!

Final Thoughts

This Amish White Bread recipe truly captures the essence of warm, homemade goodness that brings comfort and joy. It’s not just about baking; it’s about creating something special for yourself and your loved ones. I hope you enjoy making this delightful bread as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations—happy baking!