Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nostalgic Comfort: It’s a recipe that brings back memories of cozy mornings and warm, buttery slices of bread.
Foolproof: Even if you’ve never baked bread before, this recipe is simple and practically guarantees success.
Budget-Friendly: With pantry staples like flour, yeast, and sugar, you can create a delicious loaf without breaking the bank.
Versatile: Whether used for sandwiches, toast, or French toast, this bread adapts to any meal.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups warm water
¼ cup sugar
1 ¼ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons oil (olive oil recommended)

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Mix the Dough: Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, stirring to form a shaggy dough.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Shape the Loaves: Punch down the dough, divide it into two portions, and shape each portion into a loaf. Place in greased loaf pans.
Second Rise: Cover the loaves and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice when cooled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 2 loaves, approximately 16 slices in total.
Preparation Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Herbed Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a flavorful twist.
Sweet Bread: Mix in cinnamon or raisins for a sweeter variation, perfect for breakfast.
Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Reheating: Slice and toast for a quick snack, or wrap a loaf in foil and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C).

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, simply skip the proofing step and mix the instant yeast directly with the flour.

2. How do I know when my dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should feel smooth, elastic, and spring back when pressed lightly.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe doesn’t translate well to gluten-free flour, so a specific gluten-free bread recipe is recommended.

4. What’s the best way to reheat bread?

Toast slices in a toaster or wrap a loaf in foil and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C).

5. Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, but you’ll want to make the full batch for maximum enjoyment!

6. How do I keep the bread soft?

Store the bread in a sealed plastic bag or container to maintain moisture.

7. What can I do with stale bread?

Use stale bread for making croutons, bread crumbs, or French toast.

8. Can I make this in a bread machine?

Yes, use the dough cycle, then shape, rise, and bake according to the instructions.

9. Is this bread freezer-friendly?

Yes, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

10. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser loaf.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is a timeless, simple recipe that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia with every slice. Whether you’re making it for toast, sandwiches, or simply to enjoy with butter, this bread will become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!