Amish White Bread Recipe

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Introduction

Amish White Bread is a delightful, soft, and slightly sweet bread that has won the hearts of many. This simple and classic bread recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying it plain, Amish White Bread is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Follow this comprehensive guide to create your own homemade loaves of this wonderful bread.

Overview of the Recipe

Amish White Bread is known for its fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor. This bread is made with basic ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. It involves a straightforward process of mixing, kneading, rising, and baking, making it a great choice for anyone looking to try their hand at bread-making. The recipe yields two loaves, perfect for sharing or freezing for later use.

History and Origin

The Amish community is known for its simple and traditional lifestyle, which extends to their cooking and baking methods. Amish White Bread is a reflection of this simplicity, relying on basic ingredients and time-honored techniques to produce a wholesome and satisfying product. The recipe has been passed down through generations, maintaining its status as a beloved staple in Amish households.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2/3 cup white sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 6 cups bread flour

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, dissolve 2/3 cup of white sugar in 2 cups of warm water (110°F/45°C). Stir in 1 1/2 tablespoons of active dry yeast.
    • Allow the mixture to proof for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes creamy and frothy.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    • Mix 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil into the yeast mixture.
    • Gradually add 6 cups of bread flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    • Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
    • Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise:
    • Place the kneaded dough in a well-oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it with oil.
    • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Loaves:
    • Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
    • Knead the dough for a few minutes and then divide it in half.
    • Shape each half into a loaf and place them into two well-oiled 9×5 inch loaf pans.
  6. Second Rise:
    • Allow the dough to rise again for about 30 minutes or until it has risen about 1 inch above the edge of the pans.
  7. Bake the Bread:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake the loaves for 30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
    • Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving

Amish White Bread is best served fresh and warm, but it also holds up well for several days. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to soups and stews. Each loaf can be sliced into about 12 slices, making a total of 24 slices from this recipe.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

  • Sandwiches: This bread makes excellent sandwiches. Pair it with turkey bacon, chicken ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a classic lunch option.
  • Toast: Spread with butter, jam, or honey for a simple and delicious breakfast.
  • Soup and Stew: Serve slices of Amish White Bread alongside a hearty bowl of soup or stew to soak up the flavors.
  • Garlic Bread: Transform slices into garlic bread by spreading with garlic butter and toasting until golden.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Whole Wheat Amish Bread: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version with a slightly nuttier flavor.
  • Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a savory twist.
  • Honey Bread: Replace the white sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness and a richer flavor.

Health Benefits

While Amish White Bread is not considered a health food, it does have some benefits:

  • Homemade Goodness: Making bread at home ensures you know exactly what ingredients are used, avoiding preservatives and additives found in store-bought bread.
  • Portion Control: You can control the thickness of your slices and the portion sizes.
  • Versatility: It provides a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy.

FAQs

Why did my bread not rise?

There could be several reasons:

  • The yeast might be expired or not properly activated.
  • The water temperature might have been too hot or too cold, killing or not activating the yeast.
  • The dough might have been left in a place that’s too cold for rising.

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

Yes, but bread flour has higher protein content, which helps in gluten development and results in a chewier texture. All-purpose flour will still work but might result in a slightly different texture.

How can I store the bread?

Store the bread in a plastic bag or bread box at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months.

Can I use this recipe in a bread machine?

Yes, you can. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the order of ingredients, and use the dough setting to prepare the dough. Shape the dough and bake it in the oven as directed.

Conclusion

Amish White Bread is a timeless recipe that brings a touch of homemade goodness to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy fresh, fluffy bread with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and experience the delightful taste of Amish White Bread!

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