This Low Sugar Amish Bread recipe is a healthier twist on a beloved classic. Perfect for those watching their sugar intake, this homemade bread uses wholesome ingredients and a touch of natural sweetener like honey or monk fruit. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. With no preservatives and reduced sugar, it’s a better choice for clean eating without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe makes two hearty loaves you’ll feel good about serving. Try this low sugar bread for your next wholesome, homemade bake!
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What is Low Sugar Amish Bread?
Amish bread. The name conjures images of rolling farmlands, horse-drawn buggies, and wholesome, homemade goodness. But why Amish bread? Did a band of bakers in bonnets and aprons invent it? Or is it just a marketing ploy to make us think this bread is extra special? Maybe it’s because the recipe is so simple and honest, like the Amish themselves! Some claim it’s due to the simplicity of the ingredients and method, reflecting the Amish lifestyle.
Regardless, the name alone gets the taste buds singing. After all, the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart IS through their stomach, right? Ready to ditch the sugar overload and embrace a taste of tradition with a healthier spin? Let’s get baking!
Key Ingredients for Low Sugar Amish Bread:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious, healthier loaf:
- 3 cups Warm Water (105-115°F): The correct temperature is crucial for activating the yeast. Too hot and you’ll kill it, too cold and it won’t rise.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (or 1 packet): The leavening agent that makes our bread rise.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavor and controls yeast activity.
- 1/4 cup Honey (or your preferred low-sugar sweetener): I prefer honey for its natural sweetness and flavor, but you could experiment with stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener to go even lower on the sugar content. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- 7-8 cups All-Purpose Flour (or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat): The base of our bread. Start with 7 cups and add more as needed until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.
How to Make Low Sugar Amish Bread:
This Low Sugar Amish Bread is surprisingly simple to make. In about 3 hours, you can enjoy a warm, homemade loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. Its subtle sweetness and soft texture make it a truly satisfying treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake the perfect Low Sugar Amish Bread!
Step 1: Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to go.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Add the olive oil, salt, and honey (or other sweetener) to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add the Flour:
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook after each addition.
- Continue adding flour until the dough starts to come together and forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. You may not need all 8 cups.
Step 4: Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5 minutes.
- If the dough is too sticky, add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 5: First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Punch Down and Divide:
- Gently punch down the dough to release the air.
- Divide the dough in half.
Step 7: Shape the Loaves:
- Shape each half into a loaf. You can roll it out into a rectangle and then roll it up tightly, or simply form it into an oval shape.
Step 8: Second Rise:
- Place each loaf in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf pans with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
- Let the loaves rise for 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.
Step 9: Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 10: Cool:
- Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Low Sugar Amish Bread

This Low Sugar Amish Bread offers a winning combination of flavor, affordability and health. The highlights are its subtle sweetness, making it perfect for those watching their sugar intake without sacrificing taste. Making it at home is also cost-effective, saving you money compared to store-bought loaves filled with preservatives.
And let’s not forget the best part, this bread features simple, wholesome ingredients (like whole wheat flour in our recipe!) that you likely already have in your pantry. If you’re a fan of simple, satisfying bread, you might also enjoy a no-knead dutch oven loaf. But try this Low Sugar Amish Bread first – you won’t be disappointed! Get ready to experience the joy of healthy, homemade bread.
What to Serve Low Sugar Amish Bread With:
This Low Sugar Amish Bread is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to get your culinary creativity flowing:
- Sandwiches: Use it for your favorite sandwich fillings, from classic turkey and cheese to more adventurous combinations.
- Toast with Avocado: Enjoy it toasted with mashed avocado, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Breakfast: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast.
- Soup Companion: Pair it with a warm bowl of soup or chili for a comforting meal.
- With Butter and Jams: A simple pat of butter, homemade jam or sugar free jam is always a winner.
Top Tips for Perfecting Low Sugar Amish Bread:
Here are some insider tips to ensure your Low Sugar Amish Bread comes out perfectly every time:
- Yeast Temperature: Ensure the water is the correct temperature (105-115°F) for activating the yeast. Too high and the yeast will die; too low and it won’t activate properly.
- Flour Consistency: Add flour gradually. The amount of flour needed may vary depending on humidity and the type of flour you use. Add flour until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.
- Kneading Time: Don’t skimp on kneading! Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and elasticity.
- Rising Environment: Provide a warm, draft-free environment for the dough to rise. This will help it rise properly and create a light, airy loaf.
- Sweetener Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the amount of honey.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To keep your Low Sugar Amish Bread fresh and delicious, follow these storage and reheating tips:
- Storing: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, wrap a slice of bread in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, toast the bread until warm and crispy.
- Freezing: Slice the cooled bread and place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, remove the desired number of slices from the bag and let them thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This Low Sugar Amish Bread recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavor of homemade bread with a healthier twist. It’s simple to make, cost-effective, and perfect for those watching their sugar intake. Give it a try and experience the joy of baking your own bread!
Looking for more classic Amish recipes and natural remedies? Check these out:
- Our latest posts on Medium – Discover more old-fashioned recipes and tips
- Follow us on Pinterest – Daily pins full of Amish goodness
- Best Amish Recipes for Easy Homemade Meals – A roundup of wholesome, simple favorites
- Amish Apple Cake Recipe – Moist, flavorful, and perfect for fall
- Amish Amoxicillin Natural Remedy – A powerful herbal immune booster
- Amish Chocolate Whoopie Pies – Soft, chocolatey, and filled with sweet nostalgia
- Best Amish Recipes for Easy Homemade Soups, Main Dishes & Desserts
Feel free to explore, save, and share your favorites – there’s a whole world of cozy, homemade magic waiting for you!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Start by substituting 1-2 cups and adjust the amount of liquid if needed, as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other low-sugar sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. Remember that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the amount accordingly to your taste preferences.
My dough isn’t rising. What could be the problem?
There are several factors that could affect the dough’s rising. Make sure the yeast is fresh and active, the water is the correct temperature, and the rising environment is warm and draft-free. Also, check that you haven’t added too much salt, as salt can inhibit yeast activity.
Can I make this recipe in a bread machine?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a bread machine. Follow the instructions for your specific bread machine model. Typically, you would add the ingredients in the order recommended by the manufacturer and select the appropriate settings for a basic white bread or sweet bread cycle.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the bread dry and dense.

Low Sugar Amish Bread
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 2 loaves 1x
Description
A healthier take on the classic Amish bread, this Low Sugar Amish Bread delivers homemade comfort without the sugar overload. Made with wholesome ingredients and a touch of honey, it’s soft, subtly sweet, and perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or enjoying with a pat of butter.
Ingredients
- 3 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup honey (or preferred low-sugar sweetener)
- 7–8 cups all-purpose flour (or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the olive oil, salt, and honey (or sweetener) to the yeast mixture. Stir well.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Or use a dough hook for 5 minutes.)
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide in half.
- Shape each half into a loaf and place in greased 9×5 inch loaf pans.
- Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, until nearly doubled.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake loaves for 30-35 minutes, until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Try swapping honey for monk fruit or erythritol to reduce sugar further. Great served with soup, avocado toast, or simple butter and jam.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Yummy