•INGREDIENTS:
To make Amish white bread, you’ll need:
4 cups all-purpose flour: For the structure of the bread.
1 cup warm water (110°F or 43°C): Activates the yeast.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with yeast activation.
1 tablespoon salt: Enhances flavor.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds moisture and richness.
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet): The leavening agent for the bread.
•INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Mix the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, salt, and oil. Add the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.
Add Remaining Flour: Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaves
Punch Down the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into two equal pieces.
Shape the Loaves: Shape each piece into a loaf by rolling it into a rectangle and then rolling it up tightly from one end. Pinch the seams to seal.
Step 6: Second Rise
Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped loaves in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30-60 minutes, or until doubled.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the second rise.
Bake: Once the loaves have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool the Bread
Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Toast: Enjoy toasted with butter or your favorite spreads.
Sandwiches: Perfect for classic sandwiches or as a base for French toast.
Bread Pudding: Use leftover bread to make a delicious bread pudding.
Tips for Success
Measure Flour Properly: Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup; spoon it in and level it off for accurate measurement.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is warm but not hot to protect the yeast.
Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding herbs, garlic powder, or cheese for unique flavors.
