Basic Yeast Bread
Soft, fluffy yeast bread with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for sandwiches or as a side, appealing to bread lovers and beginners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and set aside to cool.
- Add shortening, sugar, and salt to the cooled milk and mix to dissolve.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water.
- Beat the egg and add it to the yeast mixture.
- Combine the milk mixture and yeast mixture, then add the flour.
- Knead the dough until stiff enough to handle but not too stiff.
- Let the dough rise in a bowl for approximately 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, adding flour if necessary.
- Divide the dough in half, shape into rolls, and proceed with desired shaping.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a soft texture, make sure the milk is just warm, not hot, when mixing with the other ingredients. If you’re out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or oil. For a bit of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or herbs to the dough. This basic recipe is versatile and can be modified for various cuisines, making it a staple in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This basic yeast bread is perfect for sandwiches or enjoying with butter and jam. Pair it with soups like Broccoli-Corn Chowder for a comforting meal. You can also serve it alongside salads or as a base for sliders. For an extra touch, try toasting slices and topping them with a spread or using them to make a delicious appetizer like Cheese Pastry Shells.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the crust remains soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Yeast Bread contains roughly 541 calories, with 14g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2462mg per serving (107% 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 properly?
If your bread isn't rising, check the freshness of your yeast. Yeast that is expired or improperly stored can result in poor rising. Also, ensure that your warm water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Lastly, make sure to let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
Can I make this bread without dairy?
Yes, you can make this bread dairy-free by substituting the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or soy milk. Use a dairy-free shortening or oil in place of the shortening to keep it fully dairy-free. Adjust the sugar slightly, if desired, to balance the flavors.
What can I do with leftover bread?
Leftover bread can be transformed into croutons, bread pudding, or French toast. To make croutons, cube the bread, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy. For a sweet treat, try making Noodle Candy or using the bread for a hearty breakfast option like French toast.
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).