There’s something special about homemade bread—the warmth, the aroma, and that first soft, buttery bite. But if you’re looking for a truly time-tested, foolproof way to bake soft and fluffy bread, you can’t go wrong with an Amish bread recipe.
Known for its simple ingredients and heavenly texture, Amish bread has been passed down through generations, bringing families together over the love of freshly baked loaves. Whether you’re making classic Amish white bread, experimenting with sweet cinnamon versions, or diving into the 10-day Amish Friendship Bread, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive into the heartwarming world of Amish baking!
Introduction to Amish Bread
What is Amish Bread?
At its core, Amish bread is a simple, homemade yeast bread known for its slightly sweet flavor and pillowy-soft texture. The traditional version uses only a handful of pantry staples: flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and oil. Unlike store-bought bread, Amish bread is free from preservatives, making it a fresher and healthier choice.
While the most common version is Amish white bread, there are many variations, including sweet Amish cinnamon bread and Amish Friendship Bread—a unique recipe that requires a starter and takes 10 days to ferment.
The History and Origins of Amish Bread
The Amish are known for their self-sufficient, simple way of life, and their bread-making traditions reflect that philosophy. Passed down through generations, Amish bread recipes have been a staple in family kitchens and Amish bakeries for centuries.
Historically, the Amish made their bread using freshly milled flour and homegrown ingredients, baking large batches to feed big families and farming communities. While modern adaptations exist, the traditional recipes remain beloved for their fluffy texture, rich flavor, and heartwarming nostalgia.
Why is Amish Bread So Popular?
You might be wondering—what makes an Amish bread recipe stand out? Here’s why this bread has a loyal fan base:
✔ Soft and fluffy texture – Thanks to the perfect balance of yeast and sugar
✔ Easy to make – Requires only basic ingredients and minimal effort
✔ Versatile – Can be used for sandwiches, toast, or even dessert
✔ No fancy equipment needed – A bowl, wooden spoon, and loaf pan will do
✔ A great starter bread for beginners – No complicated techniques, just pure baking joy
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, Amish bread is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade bread. In the next section, we’ll go step by step through making classic Amish white bread—the ultimate beginner-friendly recipe!
Classic Amish White Bread Recipe
Traditional Amish White Bread Ingredients
The beauty of a classic Amish bread recipe is in its simplicity. It requires only a few pantry staples, yet delivers an incredibly soft and slightly sweet loaf that beats any store-bought bread.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups warm water (about 110°F – this helps activate the yeast)
- ⅔ cup white sugar (adds a touch of sweetness)
- 1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast (for that fluffy rise)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (balances the flavor)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (keeps the bread moist)
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Loaf
Making this Amish white bread is easy and beginner-friendly. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a golden, fluffy loaf in no time.
1️⃣ Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active.
2️⃣ Mix the Dough: Add the salt, oil, and half the flour, stirring until smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
3️⃣ Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
4️⃣ First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5️⃣ Shape the Loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
6️⃣ Second Rise: Let the dough rise again for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s just above the rim of the pans.
7️⃣ Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
8️⃣ Cool and Enjoy: Remove from pans and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Baking Tips for Soft and Fluffy Amish Bread
✅ Use fresh yeast – If your yeast doesn’t foam in the first step, it may be expired.
✅ Don’t rush the rise – Allowing the dough to rise fully creates an airy, soft texture.
✅ Cover with foil – If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
✅ Brush with butter – For a glossy, buttery crust, brush the loaves with melted butter right after baking.
This Amish bread recipe is versatile—you can use it for sandwiches, toast, or even French toast. Up next, we’ll explore delicious variations, including sweet cinnamon and no-knead options!
Variations of Amish Bread
Amish Sweet Bread: A Delicious Twist
For those who love a hint of extra sweetness, this Amish sweet bread is a must-try! It’s similar to the classic recipe but uses extra sugar and milk instead of water, resulting in a softer, richer loaf.
💡 Recipe Adjustments for Amish Sweet Bread:
- Replace 2 cups of water with 1 cup milk + 1 cup warm water
- Increase sugar to ¾ cup for a sweeter taste
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra depth
This bread pairs beautifully with butter, honey, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar!
Amish Cinnamon Bread: Adding a Flavor Boost
Love cinnamon? This Amish bread recipe variation turns a simple loaf into a warm, cozy treat.
🌟 How to Make Cinnamon Amish Bread:
- Follow the basic white bread recipe, but before shaping the loaves, sprinkle the dough with ¼ cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
- Roll it up jelly-roll style, tuck the ends under, and place in loaf pans.
- Before baking, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar.
The result? A heavenly, cinnamon-kissed loaf perfect for breakfast or dessert!
No-Knead Amish Bread for Beginners
Short on time? Try a no-knead version of Amish bread! It requires less effort but still delivers amazing softness.
🍞 No-Knead Method:
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until combined.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let rise overnight (8-12 hours).
- The next morning, pour the sticky dough into a greased Dutch oven or loaf pans.
- Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown.
This version is foolproof and great for busy bakers! Now that we’ve covered different styles, get ready for the legendary 10-day Amish Friendship Bread in the next section.
Amish Friendship Bread – The 10-Day Process
If you’ve ever heard of Amish Friendship Bread, you know it’s more than just a recipe it’s a baking tradition that brings people together. Unlike regular Amish bread recipes, this one requires a starter that ferments over 10 days before baking.
What is Amish Friendship Bread?
Amish Friendship Bread is a sweet, cinnamon-infused bread that starts with a yeast-based starter, similar to sourdough. However, unlike sourdough, it contains sugar and milk, which gives it a slightly tangy yet sweet, cake-like texture.
The idea behind this recipe is sharing—once your starter is ready, you divide it into portions and pass it along to friends and family, so they can bake their own loaf.
How to Make the Amish Friendship Bread Starter
To make the 10-day starter, you’ll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- A large bowl (non-metallic)
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in ¼ cup warm water and let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a non-metal bowl, mix flour, sugar, and milk.
- Stir in the yeast mixture. Cover loosely and let sit at room temperature.
- For the next 10 days, stir the mixture daily.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Amish Friendship Bread
After 10 days, your starter is ready! Follow these steps to turn it into delicious, fluffy bread:
1️⃣ Prepare the Batter: Mix 1 cup of the starter with 3 eggs, ½ cup oil, ½ cup milk, 1 cup sugar, 2 cups flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
2️⃣ Add Mix-Ins (Optional): Stir in nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
3️⃣ Pour and Bake: Divide the batter into two greased loaf pans and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
4️⃣ Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5️⃣ Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool before slicing.
Fun Mix-In Ideas for Amish Friendship Bread
Want to switch things up? Try these fun mix-ins:
✔ Chopped apples + cinnamon – Perfect for fall
✔ Dried cranberries + orange zest – A festive twist
✔ Chocolate chips + walnuts – For a dessert-style bread
This Amish bread recipe is a perfect gift—bake one loaf and share the starter for endless baking fun!
Expert Baking Tips and Troubleshooting
Even the best Amish bread recipe can go wrong sometimes. If your bread isn’t turning out as expected, don’t worry—we’ve got solutions!
Why is My Amish Bread Dense? Fixing Common Mistakes
A dense loaf usually means something went wrong in the process. Here’s what might have happened:
🚫 Yeast didn’t activate – Always proof your yeast in warm water before adding it to the dough. If it doesn’t foam, it’s dead.
🚫 Not enough kneading – Proper kneading helps develop gluten for a fluffy texture. Aim for at least 6-8 minutes.
🚫 Dough didn’t rise enough – Let it rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour or until doubled in size.
How to Properly Store Amish Bread for Freshness
Nobody likes stale bread! Keep your Amish bread soft and fresh with these tips:
✔ Store in an airtight container – Bread dries out when exposed to air.
✔ Wrap in plastic wrap or foil – Helps retain moisture.
✔ Avoid the fridge – Refrigeration hardens bread faster. Instead, keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can You Freeze Amish Bread? Best Methods Explained
Yes! Freezing is a great way to keep your bread fresh for longer.
🧊 Freezing a Whole Loaf: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
🧊 Freezing Slices: Slice before freezing so you can thaw only what you need. Place slices in a freezer-safe bag and remove air before sealing.
🧊 Thawing: Let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Amish Bread
Freshly baked Amish bread recipe loaves are irresistible, but what if you have leftovers? Instead of letting them go stale, try these delicious and creative ways to repurpose your bread!
1. Make Homemade Croutons
Crunchy, flavorful croutons are perfect for soups and salads. Here’s how to make them:
✔ Cut leftover Amish bread into small cubes.
✔ Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and dried herbs.
✔ Bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
These homemade croutons will elevate any dish with a satisfying crunch!
2. Whip Up Some Amish Bread French Toast
Leftover bread is perfect for French toast because it absorbs custard without getting soggy.
✅ Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
✅ Dip thick slices of Amish bread into the mixture.
✅ Cook on a buttered skillet until golden brown on both sides.
✅ Top with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar.
3. Bake a Rich and Creamy Bread Pudding
Transform your leftover bread into a warm, comforting dessert.
🥄 Tear Amish bread into pieces and place in a greased baking dish.
🥄 Mix milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, then pour over the bread.
🥄 Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until set.
Serve with caramel sauce or whipped cream for an indulgent treat!
4. Make a Hearty Breakfast Casserole
Want a savory breakfast option? Use leftover Amish bread in a cheesy breakfast casserole.
✔ Layer bread cubes in a greased dish.
✔ Add cooked sausage, bacon, or veggies.
✔ Pour over a mixture of eggs, milk, cheese, and seasoning.
✔ Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
Leftover Amish bread recipe loaves can be turned into so many delicious dishes—don’t let a single slice go to waste!
Healthier Alternatives for an Amish Bread Recipe
If you love Amish bread but want a healthier version, don’t worry! You can make nutritious swaps without sacrificing flavor.
1. Swap White Flour for Whole Wheat Flour
Replacing half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour boosts fiber and nutrients.
✔ Use 50% whole wheat + 50% all-purpose for a balanced texture.
✔ Add 1-2 extra tablespoons of water since whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
This results in a heartier, more filling loaf!
2. Reduce Sugar for a Lighter Amish Bread
Traditional Amish bread recipes use ⅔ cup sugar, but you can cut this in half or use natural sweeteners like:
✔ Honey – Adds moisture and a light sweetness.
✔ Maple syrup – Gives a rich, deep flavor.
✔ Mashed bananas or applesauce – Keeps the bread soft and naturally sweet.
3. Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Oil
Most Amish bread recipes call for ¼ cup of vegetable oil, but try swapping it for Greek yogurt.
✔ Greek yogurt adds protein and keeps the bread moist.
✔ It reduces unhealthy fats without affecting the flavor.
4. Add Nuts and Seeds for Extra Nutrition
Want to make your bread heart-healthy? Try adding:
🥜 Chopped walnuts – A great source of omega-3s.
🌻 Sunflower or flaxseeds – Packed with fiber and healthy fats.
🍂 Oats – Adds a rustic texture and extra fiber.
5. Try a Dairy-Free or Vegan Version
For a dairy-free loaf, replace milk with almond or oat milk. If you want a vegan-friendly version, swap out eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
By making these small changes, you can enjoy a healthier Amish bread recipe while keeping the soft, delicious texture you love!
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to making an Amish bread recipe, there are often a lot of questions. Below, we answer the most common ones to help you bake with confidence!
What Makes Bread Amish?
The term Amish bread refers to simple, homemade bread recipes that use basic ingredients, typically flour, yeast, water, sugar, salt, and oil. Unlike commercial bread, Amish bread doesn’t contain preservatives, making it softer, fresher, and more flavorful.
Additionally, Amish baking traditions emphasize family and community. Many recipes, like Amish Friendship Bread, are meant to be shared, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and togetherness.
Is Amish Friendship Bread the Same as Sourdough?
Not exactly. Although both use a starter, Amish Friendship Bread is sweeter and softer than sourdough.
Here’s how they compare:
✔ Sourdough – Uses only flour and water for fermentation, resulting in a tangy flavor.
✔ Amish Friendship Bread – Includes sugar and milk, giving it a slightly sweet taste.
While both require fermentation, Amish Friendship Bread has a quicker, more predictable process, making it easier for beginners.
What Kind of Flour Do You Use in Amish Friendship Bread?
For best results, use all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with:
✔ Bread flour – Gives the bread a chewier texture.
✔ Whole wheat flour – Adds fiber but makes the bread denser, so use a 50/50 mix with all-purpose flour.
✔ Gluten-free flour – Works with adjustments, but the texture may be different.
No matter which flour you choose, make sure to measure accurately to maintain the right dough consistency!
Why Does Amish Friendship Bread Take 10 Days?
The 10-day fermentation process allows the starter to develop flavors and natural yeast activity, making the bread soft, airy, and rich. Each day, the starter is stirred, helping to feed the yeast and enhance the taste.
By the 10th day, the starter is fully active and ready to use. You can either bake your bread, share portions with friends, or save some starter to continue the cycle!
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Baking an Amish bread recipe is more than just making bread—it’s about keeping traditions alive and enjoying the simple pleasure of homemade baking.
Whether you’re making a classic Amish white bread, a sweet cinnamon loaf, or the famous Amish Friendship Bread, every bite is a taste of warmth and tradition.
Why You Should Try Amish Bread Today
✔ It’s beginner-friendly – Simple ingredients, easy steps!
✔ It’s incredibly soft and fluffy – Perfect for toast, sandwiches, or enjoying with butter.
✔ It’s a fun way to share with others – Especially with Amish Friendship Bread.
If you’ve never tried baking an Amish bread recipe before, now is the perfect time to start. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create delicious homemade bread that brings people together.
Looking for more delicious homemade recipes? Check out our Gluten-Free Pancakes Recipe for a perfect breakfast treat!