Grandma Desmet Bread
Grandma Desmet Bread offers a soft, flavorful loaf with a tender crumb, perfect for family gatherings or everyday meals, showcasing a classic homemade taste with rich aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk.
- Stir in sugar, salt, and butter; put aside.
- Measure warm water into a large bowl.
- Add yeast to the water.
- Stir until yeast is dissolved.
- Combine the milk mixture with the yeast mixture.
- Add beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Add half of the flour and stir until smooth.
- Stir in the remaining flour.
- Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a large greased bowl.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into 4 small loaves, 2 large loaves, or 2 large braids.
- Let the shaped dough rise again.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes for small loaves or at 375°F for 25 minutes for large loaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting half of the milk with buttermilk. If you’re short on time, use rapid-rise yeast to reduce the rising time. Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, but avoid adding too much, as it can make the bread dense.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delightful fresh out of the oven and pairs beautifully with butter or jam. Serve it as a side to soups or stews, or use it to make sandwiches. It also complements hearty dishes like Cosette'S Veggie Casserole. For a sweet twist, enjoy it with honey or as a base for French toast.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, let the loaves cool completely before storing. Wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves in airtight bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Desmet Bread contains roughly 238 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 741mg per serving (32% 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 some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, whole wheat flour will make the bread denser. If using entirely whole wheat, consider adding a bit more liquid to the dough to achieve the right consistency.
What can I do if my bread doesn't rise properly?
If your bread isn't rising, check if your yeast is active. You can test it by dissolving it in warm water with a bit of sugar; if it bubbles, it's good to use. Also, ensure your dough is in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising. If needed, let it rise longer.
Can I add herbs or spices to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor. You can mix in about 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs or spices into the flour before combining it with the wet ingredients. This adds a delightful twist to the bread that pairs well with savory dishes.
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).