Nanny Bread
Nanny Bread is a classic homemade bread with a soft, tender crumb and a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a side for any meal, suited for all bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add enough warm water to the canned milk to make one quart.
- Add the melted shortening to this mixture.
- In a separate bowl, add yeast cake and sugar to lukewarm water and let stand for 3 minutes.
- Add the salt to the liquid mixture.
- Gradually add flour to make a stiff dough suitable for kneading.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size, covered with a wet towel.
- Knead the dough again until it is light and springy.
- Divide the dough into four equal parts and shape each into a loaf.
- Place the loaves in greased pans and let rise until light, not quite doubled in bulk.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you don't have a yeast cake, you can substitute with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Make sure your water is lukewarm, as too hot can kill the yeast. For best results, let the dough rise in a warm place, such as near a preheating oven. This Nanny Bread recipe is perfect for those who enjoy traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Nanny Bread is delicious on its own or served with butter and jam. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Tangy Lemon Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside soups or stews, or use it to make sandwiches. This versatile bread can complement various meals, making it a great addition to your dining table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Nanny Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it to extend its freshness. To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain its soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanny Bread contains roughly 348 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1893mg per serving (82% 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 part or all of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will result in a denser loaf, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check that your yeast is fresh and active. Also, ensure that the water used is lukewarm, not too hot or too cold. If needed, place the dough in a warmer environment or let it rise for a longer period until it doubles in size.
Can I freeze the bread after baking?
Yes, Nanny Bread freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
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).