Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Combine Water and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water.
- Add Yeast: Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Add Oil and Salt: Stir the vegetable oil and salt into the yeast mixture.
- Mix in Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all 6 cups of flour, so add gradually until the dough is no longer sticky.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5-6 minutes.
Step 4: First Rise
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Punch Down Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle, then rolling it up tightly from the short end. Pinch the seams to seal.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Second Rise: Place the shaped loaves into two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the pans.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Sweet Option: For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1 cup.
- Honey Variation: Substitute part or all of the sugar with honey for a different flavor.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Herb Addition: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an herbed bread.
Conclusion
Amish White Bread is a delicious and versatile bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures soft, fluffy loaves with a slightly sweet flavor. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful bread with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Amish White Bread offers a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, and more. This versatile recipe can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of homemade Amish white bread!