Amish Friendship Bread

Amish Friendship Bread (this is a long process but well worth it!)

Ingredient for Starter

1 package active dry yeast (1 Tbls.)
1 c. milk
1 c. flour
1 c. sugar

Procedure to make Starter:

Note: DO NOT use metal bowls or spoons and DO NOT refrigerate.

Dissolve yeast in small amounts of warm water. Mix all ingredients together in an ample sized bowl or jar. (it WILL grow) This is Day 1 of the starter.

Day 1: The day you receive the starter - Do nothing.
Day 2, 3, 4: Stir with wooden spoon.
Day 5: Add 1 cup each - flour, sugar, milk. Stir.
Day 6, 7, 8: Stir with wooden spoon.
Day 9: Do nothing.
Day 10: Add 1 cup each - flour, sugar, milk. Stir. Pour into 3 containers (1 cup each). Give 2 containers to friends along with this recipe. Keep 1 cup for yourself.

Note:

When giving starter away, only half fill the container and provide for some ventilation. (ie. small hole on top of jar). The starter does expand and unless the gases caused by fermenting process are allowed to escape, they will build up and could cause the lid to pop off.

Store the remaining starter in a container in the refrigerator and begin the 10 day process over again when ready. You can also freeze this starter in 1 cup measures for later use. Frozen starter will take at least 3 hours at room temperature to thaw before using.


Baking Instructions:

Ingredients:

1 c. starter (see recipe above)
1 c. oil
2 c. flour
1 c. sugar1/2 cup milk
1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
3 eggs
3 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 c. chopped nuts (optional)


Procedure:
Preheat over to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour into 2 well greased and sugared loaf pans. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until done. Cool 20 minutes before removing from pans.