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Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread

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Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is a timeless classic with a soft, golden texture that’s perfect for any meal. This easy recipe guarantees delicious, comforting loaves that will fill your home with the aroma of freshly baked bread.

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)

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Let 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 onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • First Rise: Place 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 them in greased loaf pans.

  • Second Rise: Cover loaves and let them rise for 30-40 minutes.

  • Bake: Preheat 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.

Notes

  • Variations:

    • Herbed Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
    • Sweet Bread: Mix in cinnamon or raisins for a sweeter loaf.
    • Whole Wheat: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser loaf.

  • Storage: Keep 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 the loaf in foil and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C).

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/grandmas-perfect-homemade-bread/