Amish Friendship Bread Recipe And 10 Day Instructions

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Amish Friendship Bread has been a beloved tradition for many years, passed down through generations of bakers and shared among friends and family. This sweet bread is more than just a recipe - it's a symbol of community, friendship, and the joy of sharing delicious homemade treats with others. In this article, we'll explore the origins of Amish Friendship Bread, provide a comprehensive recipe, and guide you through the 10-day process of making this iconic bread.

The Origins of Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread is believed to have originated in the 1970s in the United States, specifically among the Amish communities in Pennsylvania. The bread was initially made as a way to share food and kindness with neighbors and friends. The recipe was often passed down through generations of Amish women, who would lovingly prepare the bread and share it with others as a symbol of friendship and community.

The 10-Day Process

One of the unique aspects of Amish Friendship Bread is the 10-day process involved in making it. This process requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to share the bread with others. Here's an overview of the 10-day process:

• Day 1: Create the starter culture
• Day 2-5: Feed the starter culture
• Day 6: Mix the dough
• Day 7: Knead the dough
• Day 8: Let the dough rise
• Day 9: Shape the dough
• Day 10: Bake the bread and share it with others

The Recipe

Here's a comprehensive recipe for Amish Friendship Bread:

Starter Culture:

• 1 cup warm water (90°F to 100°F)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

Dough:

• 1 cup starter culture (from Day 5)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

Day 1: Create the Starter Culture

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast, and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

Day 2-5: Feed the Starter Culture

For the next 4 days, feed the starter culture with 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of warm water. Mix well and let the mixture sit at room temperature (about 70°F to 75°F) for 24 hours.

Day 6: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the starter culture, flour, sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Day 7: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Day 8: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Day 9: Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oblong loaf.

Day 10: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the loaf in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Sharing the Bread

The final step in the 10-day process is to share the bread with others. You can share the bread with friends, family, or neighbors, or you can donate it to a local food bank or soup kitchen.

Tips and Variations

• Use a glass or ceramic container to store the starter culture, as metal can inhibit the yeast's activity.
• Keep the starter culture at room temperature (about 70°F to 75°F) to promote yeast activity.
• If you forget to feed the starter culture on a particular day, don't worry! Simply feed it the next day and continue with the process.
• You can add different flavors to the dough, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or dried fruit, to create unique variations.
• Consider sharing the bread with others in a creative way, such as hosting a bread-baking party or delivering the bread to a local food bank.

Conclusion

Amish Friendship Bread is a beloved tradition that brings people together through the joy of sharing delicious homemade treats. With this comprehensive recipe and guide, you can create your own Amish Friendship Bread and share it with others. Remember to be patient, as the 10-day process requires dedication and attention. Happy baking!

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