Debbie Johnston'S Quick And Easy Homemade Bread
A quick and easy homemade bread with a soft texture and subtle sweetness, perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix warm water and dry yeast until dissolved.
- Stir in sugar, oil, and salt.
- Add flour gradually, until desired consistency. Do not knead the dough.
- Divide the dough into 3 parts and put in greased bread pans.
- Let rise once.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs or spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the dough. If you don’t have dry yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast, using the same amount but allowing it to activate longer. For a more crusty bread, try baking on a pizza stone. This recipe is versatile, making it suitable for all occasions, from casual dinners to holiday feasts.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade bread is perfect served warm with butter or jam as a breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as the base for sandwiches. Try it alongside a hearty Tomato Basil Torte or serve it with a side of Ripe Cucumber Sweet Pickles for a refreshing contrast. It's also great for making garlic bread or bruschetta.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debbie Johnston'S Quick And Easy Homemade Bread contains roughly 2172 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 226g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1881mg per serving (82% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but start by replacing just half to maintain texture. Whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to add a bit more water to achieve the right consistency.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C). Allow it to cool before slicing for the best texture.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the bread?
Absolutely! You can fold in grated cheese, chopped herbs, or even nuts and seeds into the dough before dividing. Just be mindful of the extra moisture they may add, and adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the right 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).