Description
A soft, slightly sweet, beautifully fluffy loaf that tastes just like classic store-bought white bread — but better. This Amish White Bread is tender, comforting, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or eating warm with butter.
Introduction
If you’re craving that nostalgic Wonder Bread–style loaf but want it homemade, this recipe is exactly what you need. It’s lightly sweetened, similar to Hawaiian rolls or the famous dinner rolls from Logan’s Roadhouse. With simple ingredients and an easy method, this bread rises high, slices cleanly, and stays soft for days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Very soft, pillowy crumb
- Lightly sweet flavor
- Beginner-friendly
- Uses basic pantry ingredients
- Makes two full loaves
- Perfect for sandwiches, French toast, or dinner rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 6 cups bread flour
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until a creamy foam forms on top. This means the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough
Add the vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Begin adding the flour one cup at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl, turning it so the entire surface is coated. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough to release air. Knead briefly, then divide the dough in half. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them into two well-oiled 9×5-inch loaf pans.
5. Second Rise
Let the dough rise again until it rises about 1 inch above the tops of the pans, approximately 30 minutes.
6. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
7. Cool
Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Honey version: Replace sugar with ½ cup honey.
- Milk bread: Replace 1 cup water with warm milk for softer texture.
- Cinnamon swirl: Roll dough with cinnamon sugar before shaping.
- Dinner rolls: Shape into small balls and bake 15–18 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Water should be warm, not hot — too hot will kill the yeast.
- Don’t add too much flour; the dough should feel soft and slightly tacky.
- If your kitchen is cold, let dough rise near a warm (not hot) spot.
- Brush the top with melted butter after baking for extra softness.
Storage Tips
Store cooled bread in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Toast with butter, jam, or honey
- Grilled cheese or sandwiches
- Homemade French toast
- Bread pudding
- Side with soups and stews
FAQs
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the bread will be slightly less chewy and a bit denser.
Q: Why is sugar added?
It feeds the yeast and gives the bread its signature soft, lightly sweet flavor.
Q: Can I halve the recipe?
Yes — simply divide all ingredients by two to make one loaf.
Conclusion
This Amish White Bread is everything you want in a soft homemade loaf: fluffy, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re baking for sandwiches or enjoying a warm slice straight from the oven, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll return to again and again.