Amish White Bread

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Amish White Bread:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 5 1/2 to 6 cups bread flour

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   • In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Stir in yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Prepare Dough:
   • Add salt and oil into the yeast mixture.
   • Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
3. Knead:
   • Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl, turning it to coat the dough with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaves:
   • Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles. Divide it into two equal parts. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in two well-oiled 9×5 inch loaf pans.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaves with a damp cloth and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until they double in size.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool:
   • Remove the bread from the pans and place it on a wire rack to cool. Brush the tops with melted butter if you want a soft crust.

Enjoy your homemade Amish White Bread!