Audrey Aul'S Homemade Bread
Homemade bread with a classic crust and soft interior, perfect for any meal or occasion, offering comforting, warm flavors made from simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the dissolved yeast in warm water with the other liquids (water and melted shortening).
- Add the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, and salt to the liquid mixture.
- Knead the dough until stiff and elastic.
- Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the dough and put into pans.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you prefer a slightly sweeter bread, add an extra tablespoon of sugar. Ensure your water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast without killing it. Kneading the dough for at least 10 minutes will improve the texture. If you like a crusty bread, place a pan of water at the bottom of the oven while baking.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade bread is perfect for sandwiches or as a side to soups and salads. It pairs beautifully with Eva'S Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with butter and jam for breakfast or alongside a hearty stew. Slice it thick for a delightful accompaniment to any meal or toast it for a crunchy snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in a plastic bag or an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or toast slices directly in a toaster.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Audrey Aul'S Homemade Bread contains roughly 614 calories, with 16g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2791mg per serving (121% 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
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe without needing to dissolve it in warm water first. Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients. The dough may rise slightly faster, so keep an eye on it during the proving stage.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your water; it should be warm, around 110°F. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If necessary, let the dough rise in a warmer place, such as an oven preheated to its lowest setting and then turned off, or near a warm stovetop.
How can I add flavors to the bread?
You can incorporate various flavors by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices such as garlic powder or onion powder to the dry ingredients. Additionally, mixing in seeds like sesame or poppy seeds can enhance the flavor and texture of your homemade 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).