Amish White Bread – Don’t Lose This Recipe
Introduction
Amish White Bread is a timeless classic—soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly comforting. Known for its simplicity and homey flavor, this bread has been passed down through generations of Amish families, treasured for its reliability and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe offers a warm, nostalgic loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh with butter.
Ingredients & Quantities
2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
⅔ cup white sugar
1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 ½ teaspoons salt
6 cups all-purpose flour (approximately)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it stand for about 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Form the Dough
Stir in the vegetable oil and salt.
Add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat.
Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
Shape each into a loaf and place in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
6. Second Rise
Cover the pans and let rise for 30–45 minutes, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the rim.
7. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the loaves for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
8. Cool
Remove from pans and allow to cool on a wire rack.
Slice once fully cooled for clean, perfect slices.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Amish White Bread is deeply rooted in Amish culinary tradition, where food is valued for nourishment, simplicity, and family connection. This bread reflects the Amish philosophy of living without unnecessary complication—wholesome ingredients, basic techniques, and dependable results. Passed through generations, it is often served at communal gatherings, Sunday meals, and alongside warm soups and stews.
Description
This bread is soft, airy, slightly sweet, and beautifully golden. Its tender crumb makes it ideal for sandwiches, breakfast toast, French toast, and even bread pudding. The mild sweetness and fluffy texture set it apart from standard white bread, giving every slice a comforting homemade touch.
Optional Additions
Honey (replace some or all of the sugar for a richer flavor)
Butter (swap for oil for a more tender crumb)
Sesame or poppy seeds on top
Whole wheat flour (substitute 1–2 cups for added fiber)
Cinnamon swirl inside for a sweet variation
Raisins for a classic Amish-style sweet loaf
Tips for Success
Use water that is warm—not hot—to avoid killing the yeast.
Make sure your yeast foams; if not, replace it with fresh yeast.
Knead long enough to build gluten, which ensures a soft yet structured loaf.
Allow full rising time; rushing will result in dense bread.
Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.
Let the loaves cool fully before slicing to keep them fluffy.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate)
Calories: 120–140
Carbohydrates: 24–28 g
Protein: 3–4 g
Fat: 2–4 g
Sugar: 4–8 g
Fiber: 1 g
(Values vary based on slice size and ingredient adjustments.)
Conclusion
Amish White Bread remains a beloved classic for one reason—it always delivers. Its simplicity, flavor, and versatility make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again, perfect for everyday enjoyment or special family meals.
Recommendation
Bake two loaves—because one is never enough. This bread freezes beautifully and tastes even better toasted the next day. Share a loaf with a friend or neighbor for a gesture of comfort and warmth.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this recipe is rooted in tradition and sweetness, you can embrace healthful indulgence by enjoying it mindfully and customizing it to your needs—swap in whole grains, use honey, or pair with fresh toppings. Bread is nourishment, connection, and joy, and this recipe offers all three in every slice.