Quick And Easy Yeast Bread
A quick and easy yeast bread with a soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its warm aroma and crusty crust make it a comforting choice that pairs well with butter, jam, or savory spreads, suitable for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together 2 cups flour, sugar, and salt.
- Warm milk and water to 120°F.
- Add yeast to the warm milk mixture and let it sit for a few minutes until frothy.
- Add the liquid yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Add eggs and melted butter to the mixture.
- Gradually add remaining flour until the dough reaches the correct consistency.
- Knead the dough for 5 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 20 minutes.
- Punch down the dough; divide and shape into loaves.
- Place the shaped dough into loaf pans.
- Let the dough rise again until doubled in size.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or olive oil to the dough. If you're out of flour, whole wheat flour can be substituted for half of the white flour. Ensure your water is at the right temperature for activating the yeast; too hot can kill it. For a fun twist, mix in herbs or cheese, which can complement this Quick And Easy Yeast Bread beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick And Easy Yeast Bread is perfect for sandwiches or served alongside soups and salads. It pairs beautifully with Carolyn'S Blueberry Cobbler for a delightful contrast in flavors. Try adding a spread of butter or jam for breakfast, or toast slices for a crunchy snack. A side of fresh fruit can round out your meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crusty exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Yeast Bread contains roughly 303 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% 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 use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Just reduce the amount slightly, about 25% less, and mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing it first. The dough might rise a bit faster, so keep an eye on it during the resting times.
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise?
If your bread doesn't rise, it may be due to old yeast or water that was too hot or cold. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure your liquid is around 120°F for optimal activation. If your dough still doesn’t rise, try a warmer spot for proofing or give it more time.
Can I add ingredients like nuts or dried fruit to this bread?
Absolutely! Adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. Just fold them into the dough after mixing the wet and dry ingredients. Keep in mind to adjust the flour slightly if you add a lot of extras to maintain the right consistency.
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).