Description
Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is a soft, golden, and reliable loaf that fills your kitchen with nostalgic warmth. Made with pantry staples and simple steps, this timeless recipe creates the ideal sandwich bread or toast-ready slice with a tender crumb and beautiful golden crust—just like Grandma used to bake.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and oil. Stir until dough forms.
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Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled.
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Punch down dough. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Let rise again for 30–40 minutes until it crowns above the pan.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake 30–35 minutes, until golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
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Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Brush with butter if desired.
Notes
- Add 1 tbsp honey for sweetness.
- Use 50% whole wheat flour for a hearty variation.
- Sprinkle oats or seeds on top before baking for texture.
- For a softer crust, brush with butter and cover while cooling.
- Dough can be kneaded with a stand mixer using a dough hook.
