Amish White Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, homemade bread that brings the warmth of a family kitchen to your table, then this Amish White Bread Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you. There’s something truly special about the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven; it fills the air with love and anticipation. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this soft, fluffy bread will be the star of your meal.

Plus, this Amish white bread freezes beautifully! You can always have a loaf on standby for sandwiches or toast. With millions of Pinterest saves and thousands of 5-star reviews from delighted bakers, it’s no wonder this recipe is so popular.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The steps are simple and straightforward, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
• Family-friendly: Kids love this soft bread! It’s great for sandwiches or simply slathered with butter.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a few loaves ahead of time, slice them up, and keep them in the freezer.
• Delicious flavor: This bread is slightly sweet and has a lovely texture that makes each bite delightful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Amish white bread. You probably have most of these on hand already!

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 (coconut oil works well here; melt it first and let it cool to 100F! Or use melted butter)
• 5-1/2 cups bread flour (you may need a little more or less)

For Brushing

• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add herbs: Toss in some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Go whole grain: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Sweeten it up: Add cinnamon and raisins for a delicious sweet twist that’s perfect for breakfast.
• Make it fluffy: Try using all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for an even lighter loaf.

How to Make Amish White Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining your warm water and powdered ginger in a bowl. Sprinkle in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes until bubbly. This step is crucial because activating the yeast ensures your bread rises beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, mix together the warm milk, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil. Once your yeast mixture is ready, add it to this bowl. Stir well to combine all these cozy ingredients together!

Step 3: Add the Flour

Gradually add in your bread flour one cup at a time. Mixing until fully incorporated helps develop that wonderful texture we all love in homemade bread. Don’t worry if you need more or less flour; just go by feel until you get a nice dough consistency.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading is important as it develops gluten which gives our bread its structure.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 60-90 minutes. Patience is key here; good things come to those who wait!

Step 6: Shape Your Loaves

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into two portions and shape each into loaves. Place them into greased loaf pans and let them rise again until puffy—about another hour.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of your loaves with melted butter before baking them for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove your loaves from pans and let them cool on wire racks. Slicing into warm homemade bread is one of life’s greatest pleasures—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Amish White Bread Recipe

Baking bread at home can be incredibly rewarding, and these pro tips will help you achieve the perfect loaf every time!

• Use Warm Ingredients: Starting with warm water and milk (around 110F) helps activate the yeast faster, leading to a fluffier bread.
• Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, giving your bread structure. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Let it Rise in a Warm Place: Yeast loves warmth! Find a cozy spot in your kitchen, like near a sunny window or in a slightly warmed oven (turned off). This encourages optimal rising.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the shaped loaves to rise again before baking improves texture and flavor. It’s worth the wait!
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents gummy slices and keeps your bread from getting squished.

How to Serve Amish White Bread Recipe

Amish white bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Here are some ideas to make your presentation truly special!

Garnishes

• Butter: A simple pat of softened butter adds richness and enhances flavor.
• Herbs: Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Honey or Jam: A drizzle of honey or spread of your favorite fruit jam can add a delightful sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Soup: A warm bowl of tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with this soft bread, making for a comforting meal.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread, providing freshness.
• Sandwich Fillings: Create delicious sandwiches using deli meats (or plant-based alternatives), cheese, and fresh veggies for a hearty lunch option.
• Stews: Rich, hearty stews are perfect companions; they soak up the flavors while providing satisfying comfort food.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Amish White Bread recipe—it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Amish white bread recipe is perfect for meal prep! Its soft texture and delightful flavor make it a great addition to your weeknight meals. Plus, it stores well, so you can always have some on hand.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy use.
• Wrap each slice or whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• For sliced bread, toast directly from frozen until golden brown.
• To reheat a whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions about this delicious Amish white bread recipe? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour in the Amish White Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour; however, the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour provides more gluten, resulting in a chewier and fluffier loaf.

What makes this Amish White Bread Recipe so soft?

The combination of warm liquids, sugar, and oil helps create a tender crumb while the yeast contributes to its rise, making it incredibly soft and fluffy.

How long will the Amish White Bread stay fresh?

When stored correctly at room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it as mentioned above.

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

Absolutely! You can adjust the sugar according to your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that reducing sugar may slightly alter the flavor and browning of the crust.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade Amish white bread is not just about baking; it’s about creating something special that brings comfort and joy to your meals. This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers yet rewarding for seasoned pros. I hope you enjoy making this delightful bread as much as I do! Give it a try and savor every bite of your homemade goodness.