Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is soft, fluffy, golden, and made with love — just like she used to make it. This classic recipe delivers the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked bread right from your own oven. It’s simple, reliable, and makes two beautiful loaves that are perfect for toast, sandwiches, or warm slathered with butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, pillowy texture with a golden crust
• Uses basic pantry ingredients
• Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike
• Makes two loaves — one for now, one to share or freeze
• Smells amazing while baking

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Warm water (about 110°F)
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• All-purpose flour or bread flour

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: Add salt and oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You can also knead with a stand mixer using a dough hook.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1–1.5 hours.
5. Shape the Loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each into a loaf and place in greased loaf pans.
6. Second Rise: Cover the pans and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, until just above the edge of the pan.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake loaves for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Slice: Remove from pans and let cool on a wire rack. Brush with butter on top for extra softness if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 loaves (about 24 slices)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Honey version: Replace sugar with honey for a warm, slightly sweet flavor.
• Whole wheat: Swap half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Herb bread: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder.
• Seed topping: Sprinkle sesame seeds, oats, or flaxseeds on top before baking.
• Cinnamon swirl: Roll dough with cinnamon sugar before shaping into loaves.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Wrap cooled bread tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing: Wrap loaves or slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast straight from frozen.

Reheating: Toast slices or warm briefly in the oven at 325°F.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast — skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the flour.

How do I know when the bread is done?

It should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temp should be around 190–200°F.

What’s the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour gives a chewier texture.

Can I knead the dough by hand?

Yes! Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and stretchy.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

The water may have been too hot or the yeast may have been expired. Always use fresh yeast and warm (not hot) water.

Can I make just one loaf?

Yes, cut the recipe in half to make a single loaf.

Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try raisins, shredded cheese, or herbs folded into the dough.

How do I slice bread without squishing it?

Let it cool completely before slicing and use a serrated bread knife.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, olive oil adds a slightly richer flavor and works just as well.

What should I serve it with?

Butter, jam, soups, stews, sandwiches — it goes with everything!

Conclusion

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is more than just a recipe — it’s a tradition. Soft, golden, and irresistibly good, this bread is made with simple ingredients and a whole lot of heart. Whether you’re a baking beginner or just looking for that perfect homemade loaf, this one’s a keeper. Slice it warm, enjoy every bite, and make it a staple in your kitchen.

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