2-4-6 Bread(Yields 4 Loaves)
A versatile and hearty homemade bread with a soft interior and golden crust, perfect for sandwiches, breakfast, or serving alongside hearty meals. Suitable for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dissolve salt and sugar in scalded milk in a very large bowl.
- Add water, then yeast, and stir to dissolve.
- Add vegetable oil, then 5 cups of flour; mix well.
- Continue adding flour until the dough is firm but not dry.
- Knead the dough with your hands for about 5 minutes on a floured surface.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and grease the top of the dough.
- Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and let it rise again.
- Shape the dough into French loaves or place in bread pans.
- Bake until golden and hollow-sounding when thumped, about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Brush the top with butter after baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs or spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the dough. If you don't have scalded milk, you can substitute with buttermilk or a non-dairy milk alternative. Remember to adjust the flour based on humidity; it may require less or more to achieve the right dough consistency. Kneading is essential for a good rise, so ensure you develop the gluten well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread warm with a pat of butter or alongside a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Kimmy'S Cheezy Eggs for a delightful breakfast. You can also slice it for sandwiches or toast it for a crunchy snack. Consider serving with a selection of dips or spreads to enhance your appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 2-4-6 Bread(Yields 4 Loaves) contains roughly 752 calories, with 16g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2037mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my bread not rising?
If your bread is not rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the liquid is at the right temperature—not too hot or too cold. Also, ensure your dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area to encourage proper rising.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser bread. A good approach is to substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat and adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it's golden brown and sounds hollow when thumped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) for perfectly baked bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).