What if my starter isn't bubbly?

If your starter isn't bubbly, it might need a little boost. Try adding a tablespoon of sugar and ensuring it's in a warm place. Also, make sure you're using active dry yeast and checking the expiration date.

Can I use a metal bowl for the starter?

It's generally recommended to use a glass or plastic bowl for the starter, as the yeast can react with metal.

Can I freeze the starter?

Yes, you can freeze the starter! Place it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it completely before using. Stir well after thawing.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the bread?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe to suit your taste. However, remember that the sugar also helps with the texture and moisture of the bread.

Amish Friendship Bread Recipe – Soft, Sweet & Homemade

Description

This sweet, cinnamon-laced Amish Friendship Bread is a comforting, community-centered treat. Moist, lightly spiced, and perfect for sharing, it’s a traditional recipe passed from friend to friend.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup all-purpose flour (for starter)
1 cup granulated sugar (for starter)
1 cup milk (for starter)
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
1 cup starter
1 cup all-purpose flour (for bread)
1 cup granulated sugar (for bread)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk (for bread)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

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Instructions

Day 1: In a large glass or plastic bowl, dissolve yeast in 1 cup warm water. Let stand 5–10 minutes until foamy. Stir in 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk. Cover loosely and let sit at room temp for 5 days.
Days 2–5: Stir starter daily. Add a tbsp or two of milk if needed to maintain moisture.
Day 6: Add 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk to the starter. Stir well. Cover and rest 4 more days.
Days 7–9: Stir the starter daily again.
Day 10: Reserve 1 cup starter for baking. Give away 3 cups to friends or freeze for later.
In a bowl, mix 1 cup starter, 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup oil, 1/2 cup milk, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Combine with wet ingredients until just mixed.
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon.
Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Pour batter in and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes, until a wooden skewer comes out clean.
Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Check starter for activity (bubbles = good). Avoid overmixing. For variations, add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Store tightly wrapped at room temp for 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (active)
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 170mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg