Description
This timeless recipe for Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread will fill your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. With a soft, fluffy texture and a golden-brown crust, it’s the kind of bread that feels like a hug in every slice. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter!
Ingredients
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1 cup warm water
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2 tablespoons sugar
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2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
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1/2 cup milk, warmed
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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1 1/2 teaspoons salt
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the bowl)
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top, and let it sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, milk, and melted butter.
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Stir with a spoon until the dough begins to come together, then knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes, or until it’s puffed up above the edge of the pan.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot—about 100°F (38°C) is ideal, or it may kill the yeast.
For a crispier crust, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
This bread can also be made into dinner rolls or smaller loaves for a different shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American