No-Fail Bread
A foolproof, soft and fluffy homemade bread with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for sandwiches or toast, suitable for bakers of all skill levels seeking reliable results.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place water, yeast, milk, sugar, shortening, eggs, salt, and 6 cups of flour in a mixer bowl.
- Beat at low speed for 3 minutes, scraping the bowl from time to time.
- Pour over 6 1/2 to 7 cups of flour and mix with a spoon.
- Knead the dough and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into 4 loaves.
- Let the loaves rise again and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use warm water (about 110°F) to help activate the yeast. If you don’t have dry milk, you can substitute it with an equal amount of regular milk, adjusting the water accordingly. Consider adding herbs or spices for extra flavor. If you prefer a richer loaf, substitute some of the shortening with butter.
Serving Suggestions
This no-fail bread is perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups like Garden Patch Vegetable Soup. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with butter or use it to make delicious toast. It pairs beautifully with fried jalapeños for a spicy kick, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a cool, dry place for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, wrap the slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No-Fail Bread contains roughly 1869 calories, with 11g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 157g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2115mg per serving (92% 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 make this bread without eggs?
Yes, you can make this bread without eggs. Simply replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a similar egg substitute. The bread will still rise and have a great texture.
How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours in a warm place. A good test is to poke the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready for the next step.
What can I do if my bread doesn't rise?
If your bread doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Check the expiration date on the yeast package and ensure you used warm water (not too hot or cold). You can try letting it rise in a warmer area or adding a little sugar to help activate the yeast.
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).