Amish White Bread Recipe
Amish white bread is a delightfully soft and fluffy homemade bread that rivals store-bought options. Its versatility makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even as a side for soups and stews. Plus, this Amish White Bread Recipe is easy to follow and offers a comforting, homemade taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this delicious bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and yields impressive results.
- Freezes Well: You can easily freeze extra loaves for later use, ensuring you always have freshly baked bread on hand.
- Versatile Uses: Great for sandwiches, toast, or as a side dish, making it suitable for any meal.
- Soft Texture: The fluffy texture of Amish white bread makes every bite enjoyable.
- Family Favorite: A recipe that your loved ones will ask for again and again.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients comfortably without spills.
- Loaf pan: Ensures your bread holds its shape while baking, resulting in beautifully formed loaves.
Ingredients
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)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (coconut oil works really well here! OR use melted butter)
- 5-1/2 cups bread flour (you may need a little more or a little less)
For Brushing
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
How to Make Amish White Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, powdered ginger (if using), sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the warm milk and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the bread flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Using your hands or a dough hook attachment on a mixer, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If needed, add more flour gradually until the dough is no longer sticky.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Divide it into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf. Place them in greased loaf pans. Cover again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, bake the loaves for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool Down
Remove from oven and brush with melted butter on top while still warm. Allow cooling before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Amish White Bread Recipe!
How to Serve Amish White Bread Recipe
Amish white bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple side or a delicious sandwich, this bread is perfect for any meal.
Sandwiches
- Classic Peanut Butter and Jelly – Spread your favorite peanut butter and jelly between slices for a nostalgic treat.
- Turkey Club – Layer turkey, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a hearty sandwich.
- Grilled Cheese – Melt cheese between two slices and grill for a gooey delight.
Toast
- Avocado Toast – Smash ripe avocado on toasted slices and top with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- French Toast – Dip slices in an egg mixture and fry until golden for a sweet breakfast option.
Sides
- Soup Companion – Serve warm slices alongside your favorite soup for dipping.
- Garlic Bread – Brush melted butter mixed with garlic on the bread and bake until crispy.
Snack
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast – Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on buttered toast for a sweet snack.
- Breadsticks – Cut into strips, brush with butter, and bake for a fun appetizer.
How to Perfect Amish White Bread Recipe
Perfecting your Amish white bread can elevate its texture and flavor. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success every time you bake it.
- Use Warm Ingredients – Make sure both water and milk are warm (about 110°F) to help activate the yeast effectively.
- Knead Well – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop the gluten structure necessary for great bread.
- Check Yeast Freshness – Always check that your yeast is fresh by testing it in water before adding it to the mixture.
- Allow Proper Rise Time – Let the dough rise until it doubles in size; this usually takes about an hour but can vary based on temperature.
- Cool Before Slicing – Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Best Side Dishes for Amish White Bread Recipe
Amish white bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its soft texture and rich taste.
- Creamy Tomato Soup – A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of both dishes. Serve hot!
- Caesar Salad – Crunchy romaine with creamy dressing makes a refreshing side.
- Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans bring out the savory notes of the bread.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad is perfect for picnics alongside sandwiches made with this bread.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the softness of the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Amish white bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold water or milk can hinder yeast activation. Always warm your liquids to about 110°F.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading is important, but overdoing it can make bread tough. Knead until smooth and elastic—about 8-10 minutes.
- Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for texture. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size in a warm area.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dense bread. Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off.
- Ignoring the resting period: After shaping, letting the dough rest before baking enhances flavor. Give it at least 30 minutes to rise again.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Amish white bread in an airtight container.
- It stays fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Amish White Bread Recipe
- Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to three months; label with the date for reference.
Reheating Amish White Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and wrap bread in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes for warmth.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Toast slices on medium heat until golden brown, adding a little butter if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Amish white bread, check out these common inquiries.
What makes this Amish White Bread Recipe special?
This recipe offers a soft texture that’s perfect for sandwiches and toast. It’s easy to make and freezes well.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, you might need to adjust the liquid ratios as it absorbs more moisture.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should visibly double in size when properly risen. A gentle poke should leave an indentation without collapsing.
Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese?
Absolutely! Customize your Amish white bread by incorporating herbs, cheese, or spices during mixing for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Amish white bread recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it fresh from the oven or customize it with your favorite add-ins. It’s perfect for sandwiches or simply toasted with butter. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Amish White Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
Description
Amish White Bread is a delightful homemade bread that offers a soft, fluffy texture perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to soups and stews. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to create comforting, fresh-baked bread that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this classic white bread recipe guarantees delicious results every time. With its versatile uses and wonderful taste, you’ll love how this Amish bread elevates your meals. Try it today and experience the joy of baking your own wholesome bread!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 5–1/2 cups bread flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in warm milk and vegetable oil until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix bread flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until combined.
- Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic; add more flour if needed.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide into two portions, shape into loaves, and place in greased loaf pans. Let rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and brush with melted butter while warm; cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (28g)
- Calories: 78
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 117mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
