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Amish White Bread

Amish White Bread

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Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F), active dry yeast, and granulated sugar.
  2. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is important, as it ensures that the yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, honey, and salt.
  2. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Continue adding flour until a dough forms. The dough should be soft, but not too sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  1. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
  2. Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten and gives the bread its soft, fluffy texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

  1. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
  2. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. To do this, fold the dough over itself and tuck the edges in, then roll it up into a tight log shape that will fit your loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

  1. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter.
  2. Place the shaped dough into the loaf pan and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen just above the rim of the pan.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. You can also check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the center of the loaf; it should read around 190°F (88°C).

Step 8: Cool the Bread

  1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
  2. Turn the bread out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy at the bottom.

Why You’ll Love Amish White Bread

1. Soft and Fluffy Texture

This bread has a soft, light crumb that makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. The combination of yeast, honey, and oil gives it that pillowy softness that’s so satisfying.

2. Simple Ingredients

With just a few basic ingredients—flour, yeast, honey, and oil—this bread is easy to make and doesn’t require any special equipment. It’s a straightforward recipe that anyone can follow.

3. Slight Sweetness

The addition of honey and sugar gives Amish White Bread a subtle sweetness that makes it ideal for breakfast, as well as a delicious side for soups and stews.

4. Homemade Goodness

There’s nothing like the satisfaction of baking your own bread at home. Amish White Bread gives you that homemade feel, and it’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or simply as an everyday treat.

Tips for the Best Amish White Bread

1. Use Warm Water

Make sure the water you use to activate the yeast is warm, but not too hot. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast. Aim for 110°F (45°C) for optimal yeast activation.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Mix the dough just enough to bring it together. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf, so keep the mixing gentle.

3. Let the Dough Rise Fully

For the best texture, give the dough plenty of time to rise. This allows the yeast to work its magic and ensures the bread has a light, airy texture.

4. Keep the Bread Wrapped

After baking, store your bread in a bread box or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it fresh for longer. Homemade bread doesn’t contain preservatives, so it’s best to enjoy it within a few days.

Final Thoughts

Amish White Bread is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a bit of time can create something truly special. With its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the kind of bread you’ll want to bake again and again. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with butter or making a sandwich, this homemade bread will become a staple in your kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the joy of freshly baked Amish White Bread—simple, delicious, and made with love! 🍞💫

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