Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Add melted butter to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 cups of all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously.
- Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Kneading:
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Punch Down and Shape:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a loaf. Place the shaped loaves into greased loaf pans.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the pans with a towel and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes or until it reaches the top of the pans.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the second rise.
- Bake:
- Once the loaves have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cooling:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Once the bread has cooled, slice it and enjoy the soft and delicious Amish white bread.
Tips:
- Make sure the milk is warm but not too hot; otherwise, it may kill the yeast.
- You can brush the baked loaves with melted butter for a glossy finish.
This Amish White Bread recipe yields two loaves of soft, fluffy bread that is perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with butter. Happy baking!
