Mary'S Bread
Mary's Bread offers a classic homemade loaf with a tender crumb and rich flavor, perfect for sandwiches or toast, suitable for family gatherings or everyday baking enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm water.
- In a large bowl, mix shortening, salt, and sugar.
- Add boiling water and stir well.
- Add beaten eggs and stir well.
- Add flour and yeast mixture alternately to the shortening mixture and stir well.
- Cover the bowl with a towel and set in a warm place to rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough.
- Roll out on a floured board and knead.
- Melt margarine in two loaf pans.
- Shape dough into loaves and place in the pans.
- Let rise until the dough reaches the top of the pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening, or experiment with half shortening and half Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you don't have plain flour, a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour can work well. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; proof it in lukewarm water before adding it to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary'S Bread warm, slathered with butter or your favorite jam for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making it a great side for a comforting meal. For a delightful dessert, try it with a slice of Mary'S Ricotta Cheese Pie or as a base for French toast.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or wrap the loaf in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Bread contains roughly 2775 calories, with 50g protein, 241g carbohydrates, and 184g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), protein (99% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in water. This will also reduce the rising time slightly since instant yeast works faster.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to expired yeast or insufficient warmth. Ensure the water temperature is lukewarm (about 110°F) during activation. Try placing the bowl in a warm, draft-free area, or preheat your oven to a low temperature, turn it off, and let the dough rise inside.
Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor profile. You might also fold in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a savory twist. Just be mindful not to overload the dough to maintain its texture.
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).