Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread is a classic recipe that brings a taste of home to your kitchen. With its soft texture and delightful aroma, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. It’s a cherished favorite among many families, and making it from scratch is easier than you might think.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Amish White Bread. First, the ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry. Second, the process is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners. Finally, the smell of freshly baked bread fills your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of enjoying bread that you made yourself!
How to Make Amish White Bread
Making Amish White Bread is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious loaves.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast (2 packets)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 5-6 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, then stir in the yeast and let it sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes).
- Mix in the salt and flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough, divide it into two loaves, and place them in greased loaf pans.
- Let them rise again until doubled (about 30 minutes).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on wire racks before slicing.
How to Serve Amish White Bread
Amish White Bread is versatile and can be served in many ways. It is wonderful for making sandwiches filled with your favorite ingredients. You can also toast slices and spread butter or jam on them for a delightful breakfast or snack. Serve it alongside soups or salads to create a satisfying meal.
How to Store Amish White Bread
To keep your Amish White Bread fresh, store it in a plastic bag at room temperature. It can last for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the loaves well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
Tips to Make Amish White Bread
- Make sure your water is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic; this helps give the bread its nice texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.
- If you want a softer crust, brush melted butter on the top of the bread just after baking.
Variation
You can make variations of Amish White Bread by adding ingredients like herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough. For a sweeter version, consider adding cinnamon or raisins for delicious cinnamon raisin bread.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it will make the bread denser. You might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
2. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh. If the water was too hot, it could kill the yeast. If your dough doesn’t rise, try moving it to a warmer area.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust your mixing bowl size and baking pans accordingly to accommodate the extra dough.
Now you’re ready to enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Amish White Bread! Happy baking!
