Amish White Bread Recipe: A Classic Delight

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Amish White Bread Recipe: A Classic Delight

Introduction

Amish White Bread is a timeless recipe cherished for its soft, pillowy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Originating from the Amish communities, this bread reflects their commitment to simple, wholesome, and delicious homemade meals. Its versatility makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a slather of butter.

This bread, baked with love and tradition, has earned a place in kitchens around the world. The combination of minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation makes it ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients

To make two loaves of Amish White Bread, gather the following:

2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

2/3 cup white sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/4 cup vegetable oil

6 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water.
  2. Sprinkle the yeast over the water, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  1. Add salt and oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour one cup at a time.
  2. When the dough starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl, turn it onto a lightly floured surface.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  1. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

  1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a loaf and place them in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.

Step 6: Second Rise

  1. Cover the pans loosely and let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes until the loaves double in size.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  2. Remove the bread from the pans and let cool on wire racks.

Methods

Hand Mixing and Kneading: For a traditional touch, mix and knead the dough by hand.

Using a Stand Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook saves time and effort.

Bread Machine: Adapt the recipe for a bread machine for convenience.

History of Amish White Bread

This bread traces its roots to the Amish communities of North America, known for their simplicity and dedication to tradition. The Amish lifestyle emphasizes home cooking with natural, local ingredients. Bread like this was a staple, made weekly to sustain families. Its sweetness comes from the sugar, reflecting the abundance of sugarcane and beets in the regions they settled.

Benefits of Amish White Bread

Homemade Goodness: Free from preservatives and artificial ingredients.

Versatile: Complements sweet and savory dishes.

Comfort Food: Evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Nutritional Value: Provides energy from carbohydrates and some vitamins from enriched flour.

Formation

The unique softness of Amish White Bread comes from its slow fermentation and the use of sugar and oil. These ingredients enrich the dough, creating a tender crumb that stays fresh for days.

Nutrition (Per Slice)

Calories: ~120

Protein: 3g

Carbohydrates: 22g

Fat: 2g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 3g

Who Loves Amish White Bread?

Amish White Bread is adored by:

Families: Perfect for kid-friendly sandwiches or breakfast toast.

Home Bakers: A satisfying project for beginners and experts.

Bread Lovers: Those who appreciate fresh, homemade loaves.

Conclusion

Amish White Bread stands as a symbol of simplicity and comfort, connecting us to a rich tradition of home baking. Its soft texture, delightful taste, and ease of preparation make it a beloved recipe. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or exploring baking for the first time, this bread is sure to win your heart.

Bake a loaf, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the joy of homemade breadmaking.

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