Amish White Bread (Soft, Fluffy & Old-Fashioned)

Introduction

Amish White Bread is a timeless, old-fashioned homemade bread known for its incredibly soft texture, lightly sweet flavor, and pillowy crumb. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations and remains a favorite for families who love simple, wholesome bread made from scratch. It’s the kind of bread that fills your kitchen with warmth, comfort, and the unmistakable smell of home.

What makes Amish White Bread so special is its balance. It’s rich without being heavy, soft without being crumbly, and sturdy enough for sandwiches while still tender enough to enjoy with just butter and jam. A touch of sugar gives it that subtle sweetness Amish bread is famous for, while milk and butter add richness and moisture that keep the loaf soft for days.

This bread is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. It uses basic pantry ingredients, follows straightforward steps, and delivers reliable results every time. Whether you’re making toast, sandwiches, French toast, or simply enjoying a warm slice straight from the oven, Amish White Bread is a versatile staple that belongs in every home baker’s recipe collection.

If you’ve been searching for the perfect homemade white bread that tastes better than store-bought and stays soft, this recipe is the one to keep.

Ingredients

2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)

⅔ cup granulated sugar

1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast

¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter

1 teaspoon salt

6 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

Preparation
Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This confirms the yeast is active.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir vegetable oil (or melted butter) and salt into the yeast mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place into greased loaf pans. Let rise again for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from pans and cool on a wire rack.

Variations

Honey Amish Bread: Replace sugar with honey for deeper flavor.

Butter-Rich Version: Use melted butter instead of oil.

Whole Wheat Blend: Replace 2 cups of flour with whole wheat flour.

Dinner Rolls: Shape into rolls and bake for 15–18 minutes.

Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Add cinnamon sugar before shaping loaves.

Cooking Notes

Water should be warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

Kneading develops gluten and ensures soft texture.

Proper rising is key for fluffy loaves.

Brush tops with butter after baking for extra softness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Amish White Bread fresh with butter, honey, or jam. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, grilled cheese, French toast, and bread pudding. This bread also pairs beautifully with soups, stews, and hearty dinners.

Tips

Measure flour correctly to avoid dense bread.

Let bread cool fully before slicing for best texture.

Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freeze sliced bread for long-term storage.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

30 minutes

Total Time

2 hours 20 minutes (including rising time)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 160

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 190mg

FAQs

Why is Amish White Bread slightly sweet?
Traditional Amish recipes use sugar for softness, flavor, and yeast activity.

Can I use instant yeast instead?
Yes, but reduce the amount slightly and skip the proofing step.

How do I keep homemade bread soft?
Store tightly wrapped and brush with butter after baking.

Can I freeze Amish White Bread?
Yes, freeze whole loaves or slices for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Amish White Bread is a classic homemade recipe that delivers unmatched softness, gentle sweetness, and old-fashioned comfort in every slice. Simple to make and endlessly versatile, this bread is perfect for everyday use or special meals. Once you bake it yourself, store-bought white bread simply won’t compare—this timeless loaf is one you’ll return to again and again.

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