Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

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Soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened, Homemade Amish Sweet Bread is the kind of loaf that disappears fast in any home. Its rich, buttery crumb and shiny golden crust make it perfect for morning toast, sandwiches, or just a thick slice with a pat of butter. This bread isn’t just delicious, it’s deeply comforting – the kind of nostalgic bite that transports you to a simpler time.

This Amish classic rises beautifully with a pillowy texture and subtle sweetness that makes it hard to stop at one slice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to homemade bread, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. The scent alone as it bakes will have everyone waiting by the oven.

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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

• Versatile and crowd-pleasing: This bread is mild and sweet enough to serve with butter and jam, yet sturdy enough to use for French toast or grilled cheese.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy flour or specialty items here. Just pantry staples that deliver incredible flavor and texture.
• Beginner-friendly: A perfect entry into the world of yeast breads. It’s forgiving, rises beautifully, and the kneading is straightforward.
• Freezes well: Make two loaves and freeze one for later. It reheats with that same just-baked goodness.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the best Homemade Amish Sweet Bread, having the right tools helps ensure smooth steps and great results:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium): For combining the ingredients and letting the dough rise. Glass or stainless steel are ideal for watching the dough expand.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful): Speeds up kneading and gives a consistent result, especially if you’re baking multiple loaves.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For mixing before kneading.
• Loaf pans (9×5-inch): Essential for shaping the bread and helping it bake evenly. Nonstick or greased metal pans work best.
• Kitchen thermometer: Helps ensure your water is warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot.
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap: For covering the dough as it rises.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation after baking, keeping the crust crisp and the inside moist.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

Each ingredient in this sweet bread brings something essential to the table:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, giving structure and softness when properly kneaded.
• Granulated sugar: Adds that gentle sweetness that defines this bread.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise to a soft and fluffy texture.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast – just the right temperature ensures proper blooming.
• Whole milk: Adds richness and contributes to the tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Gives the bread a buttery flavor and soft texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

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How To Make the Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F) with a tablespoon of sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, warm the milk and melt the butter. Let it cool slightly, then add to the yeast mixture along with the remaining sugar and salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough starts to come together.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with the dough hook for 6–8 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough gently, divide it in two, and shape into loaves. Place in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover again and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove from pans and cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or store for later.

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How to Serve and Store Homemade Amish Sweet Bread

This bread is best served slightly warm with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a swipe of fruit preserves. It also makes an excellent base for French toast, bread pudding, or hearty sandwiches thanks to its soft yet structured texture.

For storing, once the bread has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze loaves (or slices) for up to 3 months. Always thaw at room temperature and reheat in a low oven to refresh.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Amish sweet bread different from regular white bread?

Amish sweet bread includes more sugar and milk, giving it a richer taste and softer crumb compared to traditional white sandwich bread.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same quantity. Skip the blooming step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

Most likely causes include water that was too hot (killing the yeast) or expired yeast. Always check your yeast freshness and water temperature.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

You can try substituting plant-based milk and vegan butter. The flavor and texture may change slightly, but it should still work well.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The loaves should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F also confirms doneness.

Can I shape this into rolls instead of loaves?

Absolutely! This dough works great for rolls. Divide into equal pieces, shape, and bake at 350°F for 15–18 minutes.

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Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Homemade Amish Sweet Bread, you’ll definitely want to check out more warm, nostalgic, and buttery creations from the kitchen:

• Try this rich and nutty Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for a Southern-inspired delight.
• If spiced fruit flavors are your thing, the Amish Applesauce Cake will become a go-to cozy bake.
• For something cheesy and savory, our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps make a quick and satisfying pairing with this bread.
• And don’t miss this hearty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole to serve alongside a thick slice of sweet bread.

Each of these recipes is full of comfort and simple flavor—just like our Amish classic.

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Let me know in the comments how your loaf turned out! Did you keep it classic or put your own spin on it? Tried cinnamon or raisins? I’d love to hear what made your version special. Sharing helps all of us bake better together.

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