Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread is a delightful homemade bread that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor make it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. This easy-to-follow recipe captures the essence of traditional Amish cooking, ensuring that you can create delicious loaves right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to enjoy fresh bread at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can master this Amish White Bread recipe.
- Delicious Flavor: The perfect balance of sweetness makes it a favorite among all age groups.
- Versatile Uses: Ideal for sandwiches, toast, or as a side with soups and salads.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread from scratch.
- Freezes Well: Make extra loaves and store them for later enjoyment without losing freshness.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Amish White Bread, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Loaf pans (9×5-inch)
- Clean kitchen towel
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients.
- Loaf pans: Properly sized pans ensure even baking and help shape the bread perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- 2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 6 cups bread flour
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
How to Make Amish White Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Stir in the yeast, then let it rise until it forms a creamy foam.
Step 2: Mix in Ingredients
Add the salt and vegetable oil into the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the bread flour, one cup at a time. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Transfer it to a well-oiled bowl, twisting to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once risen, beat down the dough. Knead for a few minutes then divide it in half. Shape each half into loaves and place them in two well-oiled 9×5-inch loaf molds. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes or until they have grown an inch above the molds.
Step 4: Bake Your Bread
Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Celsius (350 degrees F). Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy your homemade Amish White Bread fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread is a versatile staple that pairs well with various dishes and spreads. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted, there are countless ways to savor this delightful bread.
With Butter and Jam
- Fresh Butter: Spread a generous layer of creamy butter on warm slices for a classic treat.
- Fruit Jam: Top with your favorite fruit jam for a sweet breakfast option.
As Sandwiches
- Turkey and Cheese: Layer sliced turkey and cheese for a quick and satisfying sandwich.
- Veggie Delight: Fill with fresh veggies and hummus for a healthy lunch alternative.
For Dipping
- Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Serve slices with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple appetizer.
- Soup Companion: Pair with your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
Toasted with Garlic
- Garlic Toast: Brush slices with garlic butter, toast until golden, and enjoy as a side with pasta dishes.
How to Perfect Amish White Bread
To achieve the perfect loaf of Amish White Bread, follow these tips to enhance your baking experience.
- Use Warm Water: Ensure the water temperature is around 110 degrees F to activate the yeast effectively.
- Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for better texture.
- Let It Rise Properly: Allow the dough to double in size in a warm place; this is crucial for light, fluffy bread.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Periods: Giving the dough time to rest between kneading and shaping improves flavor and texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
- Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
Best Side Dishes for Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread complements many side dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some favorites that pair wonderfully with this delicious bread:
- Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of both the soup and bread.
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens topped with your choice of dressing make for a light accompaniment.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with savory bread flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection provide a nutritious side option.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds texture and richness alongside slices of bread.
- Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: This hearty dish combines well with fresh bread for added satisfaction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Amish White Bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that many encounter. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the perfect loaf.
- Using cold water: Cold water can prevent the yeast from activating properly. Always use warm water around 110 degrees F to encourage yeast growth.
- Skipping the rise time: Neglecting to let the dough rise can result in denser bread. Ensure you allow the dough to double in size for light and fluffy loaves.
- Over-kneading: Kneading too much can make the bread tough. Stop kneading when the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your bread. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees F before placing your loaves inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Amish White Bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Alternatively, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Freezing Amish White Bread
- Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
- Wrap each loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It lasts up to 3 months.
Reheating Amish White Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds for softening.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and toast each slice until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Amish White Bread.
What is Amish White Bread?
Amish White Bread is a soft, fluffy bread made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast. It’s perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
You can use whole wheat flour, but it will change the texture and flavor. Mixing half whole wheat with half white flour can yield good results.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Check if the crust is golden brown and tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow when fully baked.
Can I make this recipe using a bread machine?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for an Amish White Bread machine by following your machine’s directions for liquid and dry ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Amish White Bread is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for different meals. With its soft texture and delightful taste, it’s a family favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding herbs or spices, or even turning it into pizza bread! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Amish White Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Amish White Bread is a heartwarming homemade delight that combines simplicity and comfort in every slice. This soft, fluffy bread features a slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoyed warm with butter. Rooted in traditional Amish cooking, this easy recipe allows you to create fresh loaves right from your kitchen. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in, you’ll love how effortlessly this comforting bread becomes a staple in your home.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- 2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 6 cups bread flour
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and stir in yeast. Let it sit until foamy.
- Add salt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate bread flour, one cup at a time, kneading until smooth.
- Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each into a loaf and place in greased loaf pans. Allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
