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– **1 teaspoon salt**
– **4 cups all-purpose flour** (plus extra for kneading)
– **1 tablespoon butter** (for greasing the pans and brushing on top of the bread)
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### Instructions: How to Make Amish White Bread
#### Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the **warm water** and **sugar**. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the **active dry yeast** on top. Let the mixture sit for about **5-10 minutes** until the yeast becomes foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and will help the bread rise.
#### Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **yeast mixture**, **vegetable oil**, and **salt**. Stir to combine, then gradually add in the **flour**, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. Continue adding flour until a soft dough forms.
Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading. Knead the dough for about **8-10 minutes**, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much—aim for a soft, pliable dough.
#### Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Grease a large bowl with a little oil or butter, then place the dough inside. Cover the bowl 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. You can place it in a warm oven (with the oven off) or on a countertop away from drafts.
#### Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf. Place each loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, pressing down gently to fit.
#### Step 5: Let the Loaves Rise Again
Cover the loaf pans with a towel and allow the dough to rise for another **30-45 minutes** or until it has risen just above the edges of the pan.
#### Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Once the loaves have risen, place the pans in the oven and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until the tops of the loaves are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
For an extra touch, you can brush the tops of the loaves with a little melted **butter** immediately after baking to give them a soft, glossy finish.
#### Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for about **5 minutes**. Then, remove the loaves from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Allow the bread to cool before slicing for best results.
### Why Amish White Bread Is So Special
1. **Simple Ingredients**: Unlike many store-bought breads that are filled with preservatives and additives, Amish White Bread uses just a few wholesome ingredients to create a loaf that’s rich in flavor and texture.
2. **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, this bread is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with jams, cheeses, meats, or soups. You can also enjoy it as a comforting side to any meal.
3. **A Time-Tested Recipe**: Amish recipes are known for their simplicity and rustic charm, and this white bread is no exception. It has been passed down for generations and remains a beloved staple in many homes, embodying the warmth and tradition of Amish cooking.
4. **Ideal for Sandwiches**: The soft texture and slightly chewy crumb make Amish White Bread the perfect base for a variety of sandwiches. Whether you’re creating a classic PB&J or a hearty turkey sandwich, this bread won’t disappoint.
5. **Affordable**: With basic pantry ingredients like flour, yeast, and sugar, Amish White Bread is an incredibly affordable way to enjoy homemade bread. It’s a budget-friendly option for families, especially when compared to buying artisan bread from the store.
### Tips for Perfect Amish White Bread
– **Don’t Rush the Rising Time**: Patience is key when making bread. Allow the dough to rise fully during both the first and second rises for the best texture.
– **Use Warm Water for Yeast Activation**: Make sure the water is warm but not hot—too much heat can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
– **Experiment with Add-ins**: While the recipe is for a classic white bread, feel free to get creative by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or seeds to the dough. Try adding garlic, rosemary, or sunflower seeds for a flavorful twist.
– **Store Properly**: To keep your Amish White Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just slice it first for easy access to individual pieces when you need them.
### Conclusion: A Slice of Homemade Heaven
There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade bread, and this **Amish White Bread** recipe delivers all the warmth and flavor you could ask for. Whether you’re new to bread-making or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe will give you soft, delicious bread that’s perfect for any occasion. From simple buttered toast in the morning to a hearty sandwich at lunch, Amish White Bread is a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen. This bread is sure to become a staple in your home, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought bread again. Happy baking!
