Little Red Hen'S Bread
A classic homemade bread with a tender crumb and rich buttery flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a side. Its simple ingredients and comforting aroma make it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious, warm loaf fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Stir in sugar, salt, flour, and butter until well combined.
- Pour the dough into a greased bowl and let it rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Punch the dough down and put it into a greased 9-inch pie dish.
- Let the dough rise for an additional 1 hour.
- Melt butter and pour it over the risen dough.
- Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the water is warm but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. If you don't have yeast cake, you can substitute with 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour gradually. This bread is perfect for making sandwiches or enjoying with butter and jam.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delightful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or salad. Consider serving it alongside a Baked Corn Casserole for a comforting meal. For an indulgent treat, spread with butter and your favorite preserves or serve with a side of Puppy Chow Mix 'No Bake' for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, you can freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Red Hen'S Bread contains roughly 550 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% 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 half of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. This will give the bread a nuttier flavor and denser texture. However, you may need to add a bit more water to achieve the right dough consistency.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels light and airy. You can gently poke it with your finger; if the indentation remains, it’s fully risen. If it springs back, give it more time to rise.
What if my bread doesn't rise properly?
If your bread doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired yeast or the water being too hot or cold. Make sure to use fresh yeast and check the water temperature. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough in a warmer spot to encourage rising.
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).