Amish Sweet Bread Recipe
Amish Sweet Bread is a soft, slightly sweet homemade bread with a golden crust and tender crumb. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this classic recipe is perfect for toast, sandwiches, or enjoying warm with butter. The subtle sweetness makes it an irresistible family favorite.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 Loaf pans
- Wire cooling rack
- Oven
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1½ tbsp active dry yeast
- 5½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1½ tbsp salt
Instructions
- Heat the water in a pot over moderate heat, then remove from the stove.
- Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy and activated.
- Add the vegetable oil and salt, then gradually mix in the flour one cup at a time until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough inside, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide it evenly, and place into greased loaf pans.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven, cool on a wire rack, and brush the tops with butter for a soft finish.
Notes
- If your yeast doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, it may be expired or your water was too hot or cold.
- Kneading properly develops gluten, giving the bread a light and airy texture—don’t skip this step.
- Letting the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack prevents it from becoming soggy.