Are you craving the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, that soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth? Then look no further! This Amish Milk Bread recipe is your ticket to homemade happiness. It's easier than you think, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with butter and jam, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious taste of homemade goodness, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This recipe is a quick dinner idea too, providing a comforting side to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, resulting in a perfectly risen loaf. If the mixture doesn't foam, your yeast might be dead, and you'll need to start again with fresh yeast.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the egg and melted butter until well combined. This creates a smooth base for your bread dough, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Don't be tempted to add all the flour at once; gradually incorporating it ensures the right consistency.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes. Proper kneading develops the gluten, resulting in a soft and airy bread.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this. Patience is key here; a properly risen dough is essential for a fluffy loaf.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a toothpick or instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Overbaking can result in a dry loaf, so keep an eye on it.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Slice and enjoy your delicious, homemade Amish Milk Bread!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your bread is baked through.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tough loaf.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Variations:
- Add herbs and spices to the dough for extra flavor.
- Use different types of milk, such as whole milk or buttermilk, for a richer flavor.
- Add dried fruits or nuts to the dough for a sweeter and more textured bread.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 4-6g Protein: 4-6g Carbohydrates: 25-35g
This Amish Milk Bread recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious homemade cooking. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and a great way to impress your family and friends with your baking skills. Enjoy!