Gallon Jug Refrigerator Bread
A versatile, quick-rise bread perfect for sandwiches, rolls, or cinnamon rolls, with a slightly tangy flavor from the yeast and a soft, homemade texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat milk to lukewarm and stir in yeast.
- Mix together self-rising flour, soda, and sugar.
- Add in the oil and the milk-yeast mixture.
- Stir together thoroughly using a nonmetal spoon.
- Put mixture in a wide mouth jar or gallon jug.
- Loosely cover and place in refrigerator.
- After 3 1/2 hours, stir down the mixture and put the lid on the jug.
- The dough is now ready to be used or can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.
- When ready to bake, work in enough additional flour to make the dough workable (no second rising needed).
- Shape into rolls, loaves, or cinnamon rolls.
- Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your milk is lukewarm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup. This dough can also be used for various baked goods, including rolls and even sweet treats like cinnamon rolls. Try pairing it with the Best Biscuits for a delightful brunch.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bread can be served warm with butter or used as a base for hearty sandwiches. Consider pairing it with soups or stews for a comforting meal, or enjoy it alongside a salad for a lighter option. For a sweet twist, serve slices of cinnamon rolls made from the dough with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Poppy Seed Bread (Makes 2 Loaves) for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. To use, simply pull out the desired amount and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping. If you have baked bread leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them at room temperature for a few days, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gallon Jug Refrigerator Bread contains roughly 3584 calories, with 39g protein, 287g carbohydrates, and 261g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2790mg 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 regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour in place of self-rising flour. For each cup of all-purpose flour, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to mimic the self-rising properties.
How do I know when the dough is ready to bake?
The dough is ready to bake when it has doubled in size and is soft and pliable. It should also pull away from the sides of the container easily. If it's too sticky, incorporate a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! After the initial rise, portion it into desired sizes and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
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).