Amish Bread

Cuisine: American

Amish Bread is a tangy, slightly sweet homemade bread with rich vanilla and nutty flavors. Its moist texture and hearty walnuts make it perfect for breakfast or snacks. This slow-cultured bread develops a unique flavor over days, ideal for bread enthusiasts and those who enjoy traditional, homemade baked goods.

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Ingredients

  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups sugar
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 1 (5 oz.) box instant vanilla pudding
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Do not refrigerate the bread.
  2. Do not use a metal container for fermentation.
  3. Do not use a mixer; mix ingredients by hand.
  4. Burp the lid every day during fermentation.
  5. Keep the bread in a plastic container with a lid.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have walnuts, consider substituting with pecans or omitting them altogether for a nut-free version. When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense bread. For added flavor, you can incorporate a dash of almond extract along with the vanilla.

Serving Suggestions

Amish bread is delightful on its own or served with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside Apple Hill Cake for a delicious dessert duo. You can also toast slices and top them with fresh fruit or jam for a delightful treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store the Amish bread in an airtight plastic container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. If you have leftovers, this bread can last up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual pieces, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To reheat, simply toast slices or microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Amish Bread contains roughly 3654 calories, with 13g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 335g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).

3654 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13g 26% DV
Total Fat 334.9g 100% DV
Carbs 143.8g 52% DV
Fiber 23.6g 84% DV
Sugar 17.3g 35% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1314mg 57% DV
Potassium 1116.8mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 98.7mg 33% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29.1mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 89.4mg 99% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 593.9mg 46% DV
Iron 5.2mg 29% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture, making it denser. It's best to start with a 50-50 mix and adjust based on your preference.

What can I do if my bread doesn't rise properly?

If your bread doesn't rise, it may be due to the fermentation process not being adequately followed. Ensure you burp the lid daily and maintain a warm environment during fermentation. Also, check that your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper leavening.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are gluten-free as well. The bread may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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