Perfect Amish White Bread

This Amish White Bread is one of my absolute favorite homemade bread recipes because it creates the softest, most tender loaves with just the right amount of sweetness. I still remember the first time I made it on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the entire house filled with that incredible fresh-baked bread aroma that made everyone come running to the kitchen.

There’s something deeply satisfying about kneading dough with your own hands and watching it transform into golden, pillowy loaves. This classic Amish white bread recipe has been my go-to for years because it uses simple pantry staples and delivers bakery-quality results every single time. Whether you’re making sandwiches for the week or enjoying thick slices warm with butter, this homemade white bread beats anything from the store. The soft fluffy texture makes it perfect for everything from morning toast to hearty lunchtime sandwiches.

Simple Ingredients for Homemade White Bread

I always recommend using fresh yeast for the best rise and flavor in this Amish white bread. Pro tip: check your yeast’s expiration date before starting, as old yeast won’t give you that beautiful fluffy texture you’re looking for.

• 1 cup warm water (110-120°F)
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)

I prefer using all-purpose flour rather than bread flour for this recipe because it creates a softer, more tender crumb that’s ideal for sandwich bread.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

I recommend using a stand mixer for this Amish white bread recipe, though you can certainly knead by hand if you prefer a more traditional approach.

Step 1: Combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in your mixing bowl and let sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly on top. This step proves your yeast is active and ready to work.

Step 2: In your stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and canola oil, then mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Increase mixer speed to medium and knead for 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and pulls away cleanly from the bowl sides. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape the dough into a smooth ball and place in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 60-90 minutes until roughly doubled in size.

Step 5: Test the rise by pressing two fingers about half an inch into the dough. The indentation should slowly spring back halfway when the dough is ready for shaping.

Step 6: Gently turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a log that fits snugly in your greased loaf pan. Avoid over-handling the dough during this step.

Step 7: Place shaped dough in the pan, cover loosely with a kitchen towel, and let rise for 50-60 minutes until it crests slightly above the rim of the pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F halfway through this second rise.

Step 8: Bake the Amish white bread for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F.

Step 9: Remove from oven and immediately brush the top with melted butter for a beautiful sheen and soft crust. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

Step 10: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This patience pays off with perfect, non-gummy slices.

Perfect Pairings for Fresh Baked Bread

This soft homemade white bread pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments throughout the day.

Breakfast Spreads: Slather warm slices with butter and your favorite jam, or use thick slices for the most incredible French toast you’ve ever tasted. The mild sweetness complements morning coffee perfectly.

Lunchtime Sandwiches: The soft texture and sturdy structure make this the best bread for sandwiches piled high with deli meats, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. It holds up beautifully without getting soggy.

Dinner Accompaniment: Serve alongside hearty soups like chili or vegetable soup. The slightly sweet flavor balances savory, spicy dishes wonderfully.

Snack Time: Toast slices until golden and crispy, then top with avocado, peanut butter, or cream cheese for a satisfying afternoon snack.

More Homemade Bread and Comfort Food Recipes

This soft Amish White Bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups and stews that benefit from fresh bread for dipping. Serve warm slices alongside comforting bowls like Creamy Potato Soup, Broccoli Cheddar Soup, or Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for the ultimate cozy meal experience.

For bread lovers looking to expand their baking skills, try complementary recipes like Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins for an herb-forward option, Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread for savory flavors, or Garlic Bread Rolls to serve with Italian dinners. These homemade breads create a complete bakery experience right in the kitchen.

Keeping Your Bread Fresh

Store your Amish white bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a bread box at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. I recommend slicing only what you need to keep the rest of the loaf as fresh as possible.

For longer storage, wrap the whole loaf or pre-sliced bread in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. The bread freezes beautifully and tastes freshly baked after thawing.

To thaw frozen bread, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours, or toast slices directly from frozen. Pro tip: warm a whole frozen loaf in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore that fresh-from-the-oven texture.

Common Baking Questions

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