Country Fair Egg Bread
Country Fair Egg Bread is a soft, fluffy bread with a slightly sweet flavor, enriched with eggs and a hint of oil. Perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, its golden crust and tender crumb make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 3/4 cup water and 1 cup milk.
- Soften yeast in warm water; let it set until foamy.
- Combine sugar, oil, and salt in a large bowl; add hot milk and cold water, mixing well.
- Add eggs that have been whipped slightly, then add yeast mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add 7 to 9 cups of flour, stirring until forming a stiff batter.
- Spread a large amount of flour on a surface and pour out the batter; knead the dough for about 7 minutes.
- Place the dough into a greased bowl and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and turn it over.
- Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.
- Turn out the dough, shape into rolls or loaves, and let rise until doubled in size.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 25 minutes.
- Brush the hot bread with butter before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of cold water in the dough mixture. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Remember, kneading the dough well is essential for a good texture. If you want a sweeter bread, add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This egg bread is delightful served warm with butter or alongside a hearty soup or stew. It also pairs beautifully with Hot Brandied Fruit for a sweet contrast. For a brunch option, serve slices with jam or a cream cheese spread. Consider using it for sandwiches as well, as it holds up well to fillings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover egg bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in a toaster or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Fair Egg Bread contains roughly 526 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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. Use the same amount; however, you can skip the proofing step. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients for a quicker preparation.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is fully baked when it has a golden brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) when done.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the bread?
Absolutely! You can incorporate herbs, cheese, or even dried fruits to enhance the flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture, which could affect the dough consistency.
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).