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Amish White Bread Recipe

Amish White Bread Recipe

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Nothing says comfort like a warm, thick slice of Amish White Bread. Soft, fluffy, and just slightly sweet, this bread has become a beloved classic for good reason. Whether you’re enjoying it with a slather of butter, making the ultimate grilled cheese, or dipping it into a hearty soup, it’s the kind of bread that wraps you up in nostalgic goodness.

Unlike store-bought loaves, Amish White Bread is made with simple pantry staples and no preservatives, making it taste homier and fresher. It rises beautifully with a tender crumb and a golden crust that gives that satisfying bakery-style look. Plus, it freezes well—so go ahead and bake a few loaves while you’re at it!


What Kind of Flour Should I Use?

For the softest, fluffiest loaf, all-purpose flour is your best friend. It’s strong enough to develop gluten structure but mild enough to keep the crumb light and tender. You can also substitute with bread flour if you prefer a chewier texture and a slightly higher rise.


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Ingredients for the Amish White Bread Recipe

  • All-purpose flour – Essential for creating that classic soft and fluffy texture.
  • Warm water – Activates the yeast and provides the right environment for rising.
  • White sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the bread.
  • Active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise and gives it that airy softness.
  • Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
  • Vegetable oil – Adds moisture and keeps the bread tender.

How To Make the Amish White Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it’s frothy. This is how you know the yeast is active and ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead to Develop Texture

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. This step builds the gluten structure that gives the bread its soft, chewy bite.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions, shape into loaves, and place them into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover and let rise again for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped. Let cool before slicing.


How to Serve and Store Amish White Bread

Serve it fresh out of the oven with butter and jam for breakfast, or turn it into toast, sandwiches, or savory French toast. It pairs perfectly with soups, stews, and slow cooker meals.

To store, let the bread cool completely and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to use.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my yeast is still good?

If your yeast doesn’t foam up after 10 minutes in warm water with sugar, it may be expired and should be replaced.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can swap up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The loaf will be denser and have a nuttier flavor.

Why is my bread not rising?

This could be due to inactive yeast, cold water, or a drafty room. Make sure your water is warm (not hot) and the dough is kept in a warm, cozy environment.

Can I make this recipe without sugar?

You can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that it helps feed the yeast and adds flavor. Omitting it entirely will change the texture and rise.

Should I brush the top with butter?

Yes! Brushing the top with butter right after baking adds extra flavor and gives the crust that soft, shiny finish.

Can I knead the dough in a stand mixer?

Absolutely. Use a dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 5–6 minutes until the dough is smooth.


Want More Bread Ideas?

If this Amish White Bread stole your heart, check out these other delicious breads and bakes:


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest baking board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Jam on Pinterest

I’d love to hear how your loaf turned out! Did you shape it into rolls? Add honey? Let us know in the comments. Your tips might help someone else bake their best loaf ever. Questions welcome too!


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Amish White Bread Recipe

Amish White Bread Recipe


  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 2 loaves
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Amish White Bread is the ultimate comfort loaf—fluffy, slightly sweet, and perfect for everything from toast to sandwiches. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s easy enough for beginner bakers and freezes like a dream.


Ingredients

2 cups warm water

⅔ cup white sugar

1½ tablespoons active dry yeast

1½ teaspoons salt

¼ cup vegetable oil

6 cups all-purpose flour


Instructions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and stir in yeast. Let sit until frothy, about 10 minutes.

2. Add oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir in flour one cup at a time, mixing until the dough pulls away from the bowl.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 to 1.5 hours).

5. Punch down the dough, divide it in half, shape into loaves, and place into two greased 9×5 inch loaf pans.

6. Let the dough rise a second time for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Remove from pans and cool on a wire rack. Optional: brush tops with butter for a soft finish.

Notes

Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

Knead until the dough is smooth and bounces back when poked—this ensures the perfect texture.

Brush the tops with butter right after baking for a softer, flavorful crust.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Amish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of a loaf)
  • Calories: 156
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 196mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: amish white bread, homemade bread, soft sandwich loaf

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