Homemade Bread Or Rolls

Prep: 120 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Homemade bread or rolls offer warm, comforting aromas and a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this versatile recipe allows you to enjoy fresh, flavorful bread tailored to your preference—whether as hearty loaves or fluffy rolls—using simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

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Ingredients

  • 6 cups lukewarm water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 packets dry active yeast
  • 1 cup melted lard
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 6 pounds flour

Instructions

  1. Mix lukewarm water, sugar, and dry active yeast or cake yeast in a large bowl.
  2. Allow the mixture to rise for 1 hour.
  3. Work the dough down and let it rise for another hour.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 6 loaves or about 6 dozen rolls.
  5. Shape the dough accordingly and place in greased pans or on baking sheets.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes for bread or 30 minutes for rolls.
  7. Garnish the top with melted lard after baking.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute melted butter for lard if you prefer a different flavor. If you want to add some herbs or garlic powder to the dough, it can enhance the overall taste. Make sure your water is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the homemade bread or rolls warm with butter for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with soups or stews, making them a great side for comfort meals. For a sweet twist, enjoy with a smear of honey or alongside a slice of Honey Lemon Rhubarb Pie.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover bread or rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Homemade Bread Or Rolls contains roughly 364 calories, with 11g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.7g 21% DV
Total Fat 21.9g 28% DV
Carbs 37.8g 14% DV
Fiber 10.7g 38% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 602.5mg 26% DV
Potassium 489.1mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 19mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 43.6mg 48% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 35.7mg 3% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 dry active yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry active yeast. Simply reduce the amount to about 3 tablespoons and mix it directly with the flour without needing to activate it in water first.

What should I do if my dough isn't rising?

If your dough isn't rising, make sure your yeast is fresh and that your water was lukewarm, not hot. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer area or covering it with a damp cloth to create a humid environment.

Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding cheese, herbs, or spices can enhance the flavor of your bread or rolls. Just be mindful of the additional moisture these ingredients may bring and adjust the flour accordingly.

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).

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