Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh, homemade bread filling the kitchen. Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this simple recipe will give you a delicious, golden loaf with the perfect texture. It’s great for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter and honey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tried and True – A classic family recipe passed down for generations.
• Soft and Fluffy – Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or dinner rolls.
• Easy to Make – Uses simple pantry staples and minimal hands-on time.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and store for later use.
• Customizable – Add herbs, seeds, or honey for extra flavor.

Ingredients

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

• Warm water (about 110°F)
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar or honey
• Salt
• Butter (melted)
• All-purpose or bread flour

Directions

this recipe

1. Activate the Yeast – In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough – Add melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough – Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaves – Punch down the dough, divide it in half, and shape into loaves. Place in greased loaf pans.
6. Second Rise – Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until the dough has risen above the pan.
7. Bake – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve – Let the bread cool before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or honey.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 loaves
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Whole Wheat Version – Swap half of the flour for whole wheat flour.
• Honey Bread – Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Herbed Bread – Add dried rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Seeded Loaf – Sprinkle sesame, flax, or sunflower seeds on top before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight bag for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week, but it may dry out faster.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or toast before serving.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! If using instant yeast, you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.

Why didn’t my bread rise?

Ensure your yeast is fresh, and the water is warm but not too hot (110°F is ideal).

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can knead the dough by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Tap the top—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be about 190°F.

Can I make rolls with this dough?

Absolutely! Shape the dough into small rolls and bake for 15-20 minutes.

How do I prevent my bread from drying out?

Store in an airtight bag or wrap in plastic wrap once cooled.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! Bread flour will make the bread slightly chewier and more structured.

What’s the best way to slice homemade bread?

Use a serrated bread knife and let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?

Yes! Add up to ½ cup of chopped nuts, raisins, or cranberries to the dough.

What should I serve with this bread?

Enjoy with butter, honey, jam, soup, or even as sandwich bread.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is a timeless recipe that fills your home with warmth and delicious aroma. Whether you’re making it for family, meal prep, or just for fun, this soft, fluffy bread will be a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade bread!

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