Recipe : "Amish" White Bread

This can be made in a bread machine or the old-fashioned way; either way, it turns out great!

Bread Machine (one loaf)


2 3/4 c flour
1/4 cup canola oil
1 tsp yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup + 2 tbsp warm water

Add to bread machine in manufacturer's recommended order.  1-1/2 lb loaf, light crust setting.  This recipe requires TWO rising cycles.


Traditional Method (two loaves)


1 packet yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups warm water
approx 5 cups white flour


Dissolve one packet or 2-1/4 tsp yeast in 1/4 cup warm water with a bit of sugar.  Let rest til foamy.

In a large bowl, combine yeast, oil, sugar, salt and warm water.  Add flour one cup at a time, mixing well.  Knead in the last bit of flour by hand; knead for several minutes, adding flour as needed until no longer sticky.  Dough should still be somewhat soft.

Place dough ball in a greased bowl; turn over, then let rest in a warm place until doubled.

Punch down, divide in half and form into two loaves.  Place in lightly greased loaf pans and let rest in a warm place until doubled.

Bake at 350 degrees until evenly browned and until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on, approximately 40 minutes.