Amish White Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, homemade bread that fills your kitchen with warmth and the delightful aroma of baking, then this Amish White Bread Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my home for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and filling or for those cozy family gatherings where delicious food is a must. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice bakers can impress their loved ones!

What makes this bread truly special is its soft texture and subtle sweetness. It’s the kind of bread that makes the best sandwiches, toasts beautifully, or simply pairs wonderfully with butter. Trust me; once you try making this Amish white bread at home, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves soft white bread, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: This bread freezes beautifully, so you can always have some on hand for last-minute meals or snacks.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sugar and milk gives this bread a subtly sweet taste that elevates any dish.
• Versatile use: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side at dinner; the options are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Amish White Bread Recipe, you’ll only need a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. These wholesome staples come together to create a loaf that’s both satisfying and delicious.

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 desired)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (melted coconut oil works well; cool it to 100F! OR use melted butter)
• 5-1/2 cups bread flour (you may need a little more or less)

For the Topping

• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

One of the best things about this Amish white bread recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it based on your tastes or what you have available.

• Add some herbs: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Incorporate seeds: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or sesame seeds into the dough for added texture and nutrition.
• Make it whole grain: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Sweeten it up: Add raisins or cranberries into the dough for a delightful fruity flavor.

How to Make Amish White Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by warming up your water and milk to about 110°F. This temperature helps activate the yeast. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, milk, sugar, and ginger if using. Sprinkle in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy. This step is important because it ensures that your yeast is alive and kicking!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, add in the salt and vegetable oil. Stir everything together gently until combined. The oil will help keep your bread moist as it bakes.

Step 3: Add Flour Gradually

Now comes the fun part—adding flour! Gradually mix in the bread flour one cup at a time until a dough forms. You may need slightly more or less than specified depending on humidity levels—just go by feel. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic; this should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—around an hour. This step allows those lovely air bubbles to form which will give your bread its fluffy texture.

Step 5: Shape & Second Rise

Once risen, punch down your dough gently to release excess air. Divide it into two equal pieces and shape each piece into loaves. Place them into greased loaf pans. Cover them again with the towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 6: Bake & Brush with Butter

Bake your loaves in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top. When they come out of the oven, brush them with melted butter right away—it adds flavor and keeps them soft! Let them cool before slicing so all those wonderful flavors settle.

And there you have it—a warm loaf of Amish white bread ready to be enjoyed! Feel free to slice up some now while it’s still warm; there’s nothing quite like fresh-baked bread!

Pro Tips for Making Amish White Bread Recipe

Baking bread at home can be incredibly rewarding, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your Amish white bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use warm water and milk: The temperature is crucial for activating the yeast. Keeping your liquids at around 110°F creates the ideal environment for yeast to thrive, leading to a beautiful rise.

• Knead well: Kneading develops gluten in the dough, which gives the bread structure and chewiness. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until your dough is smooth and elastic.

• Let it rise in a warm place: Yeast loves warmth! Placing your dough in a draft-free area helps it rise more effectively. A simple trick is to preheat your oven to the lowest setting for a minute, then turn it off and let your dough rise inside.

• Don’t rush the second rise: After shaping your loaves, give them enough time to rise again before baking. This step enhances texture and ensures a light, fluffy loaf.

• Cool before slicing: Allow your bread to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into it. This prevents the inside from becoming gummy and helps maintain its lovely texture.

How to Serve Amish White Bread Recipe

Amish white bread is wonderfully versatile! Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or creating delightful sandwiches, there are countless ways to serve this classic loaf.

Garnishes

• Butter: A simple pat of softened butter on top adds rich flavor and complements the softness of the bread.
• Herb-infused oils: Drizzling a bit of olive oil infused with herbs like rosemary or basil can elevate your bread’s flavor profile while adding an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Tomato Soup: This comforting classic pairs beautifully with fresh bread; dip those slices for a cozy meal.
• Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies balances the richness of the bread, making for a light yet satisfying dinner.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your table while complementing the soft texture of the bread.
• Cheese Platter: Serve alongside an array of cheeses for a delightful appetizer or snack. The creamy textures contrast beautifully with each slice of bread.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy delicious Amish white bread in various settings! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Amish White Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! With its soft texture and delightful flavor, you can bake several loaves at once and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and freeze your homemade bread properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
• Wrap the cooled loaves in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the packages with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, simply toast them in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown.
• For whole loaves, remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use whole wheat flour in this Amish White Bread Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute part of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Start with half whole wheat and half bread flour to maintain texture.

How do I know if my yeast is active when making Amish White Bread Recipe?

To check if your yeast is active, mix it with warm water and sugar (like in this recipe). If it bubbles and foams within 5-10 minutes, it’s good to go!

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

Absolutely! You can adjust the sugar according to your taste preferences. Just remember that sugar also contributes to browning and texture.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky, sprinkle a little more bread flour as you knead it until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Amish White Bread Recipe is not just about creating delicious loaves; it’s about filling your home with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re slathering on some butter or making sandwiches for lunch, this bread brings joy to every meal. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Happy baking!