Amish Bread
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Amish bread is a delightful treat that brings warmth and nostalgia into your kitchen. I have fond memories of making this fluffy, sweet bread that fills the house with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or even just a cozy evening at home. Whether you enjoy it slathered with butter or toasted with jam, Amish bread is sure to please everyone at the table.
Reasons to try it
What makes Amish bread so special? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. The ingredients are simple, budget-friendly, and often found in your pantry—making this a go-to recipe for last-minute occasions. It’s also versatile; you can serve it as a side for dinner, a sweet breakfast option, or even a delightful snack during the day.
"This Amish bread is heavenly! It’s soft, fluffy, and the cinnamon gives it the perfect warm flavor. I love making it for brunch—everyone always wants the recipe!" – A Happy Baker
Step-by-step overview
Now that you know why you’ll love this bread, let’s dive into how to create it. The process is straightforward, making it approachable for any home cook. You’ll prepare the dough, let it rise, bake it until golden, and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness. Here’s what to expect:
- Combine the sugar, water, honey, and yeast.
- Mix in warm milk followed by melted butter.
- Gradually incorporate flour and knead the dough.
- Let the dough rise before baking.
What you’ll need
To make this delicious Amish bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water (110° to 120°)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 4-6 cups bread flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile if desired!
Step-by-step instructions
- In the mixing bowl of a stand mixer, add the 1/3 cup sugar, warm water, honey, and dry yeast. Mix gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Warm the milk and add it to the yeast mixture, then stir well.
- Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in the microwave and add it to the mixture.
- Gradually add 2 cups of flour, using the dough hook to mix.
- Next, add the remaining melted butter, salt, and 2 more cups of flour.
- Turn on the mixer and knead for 7 to 10 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in flour, a little at a time, until it forms a stretchy ball.
- Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, then shape it as desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Amish bread can be enjoyed in many delightful ways! Serve it warm with butter, slice it for sandwiches, or toast it for a crispy treat. Pair it with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. Alternatively, for a creative finish, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top just before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Amish bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices by placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure your water is at the ideal temperature for activating yeast—this way, you can avoid any mishaps!
- If you prefer an even fluffier bread, let it rise in a warm environment, such as an oven set to its lowest temperature for a few minutes (then turned off).
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can also add a handful of raisins or nuts to the dough.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try with your Amish bread:
- Add orange zest or vanilla extract for a citrusy twist.
- Swap out regular granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Mix in chocolate chips or dried cranberries to introduce a sweet surprise.
Common Questions
How long does it take to make Amish bread?
The total time for making Amish bread is around 2–3 hours, including the rising time. However, the actual hands-on prep is quite short, roughly 30–40 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the brand for proper ratios, as gluten-free flours can behave differently than wheat flour.
How should I reheat Amish bread?
To reheat Amish bread, simply pop it back into a warm oven for a few minutes or use a toaster for individual slices. This will help you achieve that freshly-baked taste once more.
Now you’re all set to enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade Amish bread. Happy baking!
Amish Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In the mixing bowl of a stand mixer, add the 1/3 cup sugar, warm water, honey, and dry yeast. Mix gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Warm the milk and add it to the yeast mixture, then stir well.
- Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in the microwave and add it to the mixture.
- Gradually add 2 cups of flour, using the dough hook to mix.
- Next, add the remaining melted butter, salt, and 2 more cups of flour.
- Turn on the mixer and knead for 7 to 10 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in flour, a little at a time, until it forms a stretchy ball.
- Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, then shape it as desired.
