Homemade Old Fashion White Bread
Homemade white bread with soft texture and classic flavor, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches. Suitable for beginners and bread lovers seeking fresh, warm bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set aside 2 2/3 cups of warm water.
- Dissolve active dry yeast with a dash of sugar in 2 2/3 cups warm water.
- Mix all other ingredients including salt and shortening or soft butter.
- Gradually add the yeast mixture to the other ingredients to form dough.
- Knead the dough very well for about 5 minutes.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough and place in pans, then let rise for an additional 1 hour.
- Bake the bread until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and active by checking the expiration date. If you want a richer flavor, consider using half butter and half shortening. You can also substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread. Adding herbs or garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile, making it more versatile for various dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade white bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and salads. It pairs beautifully with Mrs. G.'S Chicken Rotel for a comforting meal. Try adding a spread of butter or jam for breakfast, or use it to create a delightful Breakfast Bread Pudding for a sweet treat.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a resealable bag. To reheat, simply toast slices or wrap the loaf in foil and warm it in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Old Fashion White Bread contains roughly 205 calories, with 9g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
What can I do if my bread doesn't rise properly?
If your bread doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and proof it in warm water with a bit of sugar before mixing. For a warmer environment, place the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on, or near a warm stove.
Can I make this bread without shortening?
Yes, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of soft butter or even vegetable oil for a different flavor and texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using unsweetened applesauce as a partial substitute for fat, which can also add moisture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Additionally, the top should be golden brown. An instant-read thermometer can also help; the internal temperature should be around 190°F for fully baked bread.
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).