Amish White Bread

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional, for slightly sweetened bread)

Preparation

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir to dissolve the yeast.
• Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
• Add the activated yeast mixture, vegetable oil, and honey or sugar (if using).
• Stir to combine until a dough begins to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough for about 5–6 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
• Shape the dough into a loaf by rolling it into a tight cylinder and pinching the seams together.
• Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Cover the pan with a cloth and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it rises just above the edge of the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
• Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the water is not too hot (it should feel warm to the touch, not hot) to avoid killing the yeast.
• Flour Consistency: Depending on humidity, you may need to adjust the flour. Add it gradually until the dough is smooth but not too sticky.
• Even Rise: For a faster rise, place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot, like inside an oven with the light on.

Variations

• Soft and Sweet: Add a tablespoon of butter or more honey to the dough for a softer, sweeter loaf.
• Herb-Infused: Knead dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic into the dough for a savory twist.
• Whole Wheat: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.

Why You’ll Love This Amish White Bread

• Soft and Fluffy: A tender crumb with a light, airy texture that makes it perfect for sandwiches or toast.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and no fancy equipment, it’s an easy homemade bread.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or as the base for your favorite toppings.

Enjoy!