Quick And Easy "Batter" Bread
A quick and easy bread with a tender crumb and simple ingredients, perfect for homemade sandwiches or a comforting snack, suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Add shortening, sugar, salt, and 2 cups of flour; blend well.
- Beat for 2 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally.
- Stir in remaining flour until smooth.
- Scrape batter from sides of bowl.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
- Stir the dough batter by beating 25 to 30 strokes.
- Spread evenly in a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Pat the top with floured hands to shape and smooth.
- Cover and let rise until doubled, about 40 minutes.
- Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Brush the top with melted butter.
- Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier texture, ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated in warm water. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. Experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or add herbs for a savory twist. Make sure to scrape the bowl well while mixing for even consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bread pairs beautifully with soups and salads, making it a perfect companion for a warm bowl of Hot Dog Slaw or alongside a hearty Cook'S Salad. You can also enjoy it with butter and jam for breakfast or as a base for sandwiches. For a special treat, serve it with a slice of Angel Food Cake Layer for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness, and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container. To reheat, toast slices directly or warm the whole loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy "Batter" Bread contains roughly 75 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 734mg per serving (32% 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 plain flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for plain flour, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and plain flour for a balance of flavor and lightness.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or an unsuitable temperature. Make sure your water is the right temperature (105-115°F) and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If all else fails, try using a new packet of yeast.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the batter?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding cheese, herbs, or spices to the batter. Just fold them in gently after mixing to maintain the dough's structure. This will create a delicious variation of the 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).