Bake Like the Amish: Pennsylvania's Delightful Amish Friendship Bread Recipe!

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In the heart of Pennsylvania, where rolling hills meet charming towns, the Amish community preserves its rich traditions through time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations. One such cherished tradition is the Amish Friendship Bread, a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of community and sharing. This bread is more than just a delicious treat; it's a symbol of friendship and warmth that has found its way into kitchens across the state.

The Heartwarming Tradition of Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread isn't just a recipe; it's an experience rooted in the culture and values of Pennsylvania's Amish communities. The unique aspect of this bread is its starter, a fermented mixture of flour, sugar, and milk, which is shared among friends and family. This starter is what makes the bread so special, creating a chain of friendship that connects people through baking. As the starter is passed on, each recipient adds their own touch, creating a rich tapestry of flavors and memories.

Recipe: Pennsylvania Amish Friendship Bread

Ingredients:

For the Starter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk

For the Bread:

• 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread Starter
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

Instructions:

1. Making the Starter:
2. • In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of milk. Stir until smooth.
   • Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours. Stir the mixture once daily for the next 9 days. On the 10th day, the starter is ready to use.
3. Baking the Bread:
4. • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease two loaf pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of the starter, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla pudding mix. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
   • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

The Joy of Sharing Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread is more than just a delightful treat; it's a culinary tradition that brings people together. Sharing the starter with friends and family is a way to spread joy and create lasting connections. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the kitchen, while the anticipation of tasting the sweet, cinnamon-infused slices builds excitement.

As you savor each bite, you become part of a larger story, a legacy of friendship that has been nurtured by the Amish community for generations. The beauty of this bread lies not only in its flavor but in the memories it creates. Baking and sharing Amish Friendship Bread is a way to honor Pennsylvania's Amish heritage while embracing the spirit of togetherness.

Whether you're enjoying a slice with a cup of tea or gifting a loaf to a neighbor, Amish Friendship Bread is a delicious reminder that the simple act of sharing can bring warmth and happiness to our lives.

Source: Family Recipe