Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

There’s something inherently comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for Homemade Amish Sweet Bread. This bread is a celebration of simplicity, using just a handful of ingredients to create a tender, slightly sweet loaf that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish sweet bread is incredibly light and fluffy, with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of Hawaiian bread. Its versatility makes it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a side for dinner. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and steps will make you feel like a seasoned baker in no time.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Loaf tins
• Cooking spray
• Clean cloth

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 5½ to 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 1½ tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Heat the water in a pot over moderate heat on the stove.
2. Once it reaches a boil, stir in the sugar and let it dissolve.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the yeast.
4. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
5. Stir in the oil and salt.
6. Add a cup of flour at a time, beating well between each addition.
7. Continue adding flour until the dough forms a ball but remains slightly sticky.
8. Flour a work surface and turn the dough onto it.
9. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
10. Coat a bowl with cooking spray and place the dough inside.
11. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour.
12. Punch down the dough and divide it into two halves.
13. Place each half into a greased loaf tin.
14. Cover again and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
15. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
16. Bake the bread for 30 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
17. Enjoy your homemade bread!

Tips for Success

• Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
• If the dough seems too sticky, add extra flour a tablespoon at a time.
• For a softer crust, brush the tops of the loaves with butter after baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a twist, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for extra flavor. You can also top the loaves with sesame seeds or oats before baking for added texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This homemade bread is free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought loaves. While exact nutritional values can vary, each serving is a source of carbohydrates for energy, with minimal fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter loaf.

How should I store the bread?
Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t use any animal products.

Conclusion

Now that you have everything you need to make Homemade Amish Sweet Bread, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! We would love to hear how your bread turns out, so feel free to share your experiences and any creative variations you try. Happy baking!