Sally Lunn Bread
Sally Lunn Bread is a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread with a rich, buttery flavor. Its tender crumb and golden crust make it perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a dinner accompaniment. Ideal for those who enjoy classic, homemade baked goods with a comforting aroma and taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F ten minutes before baking.
- Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
- Heat milk, shortening, and water to very warm.
- In a large bowl, blend 1 1/3 cups of flour with sugar, salt, and dry yeast.
- Blend the warm liquids into the flour mixture at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Add 2/3 cup of the remaining flour and eggs, then beat at high speed for 2 minutes.
- Add the rest of the flour and mix well.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Punch down the dough and turn into the prepared pan.
- Cover and let rise for about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a slightly different texture. Be sure to sift the flour before measuring to ensure accuracy. If you don't have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast, but adjust the rising time accordingly. For added flavor, try mixing in some herbs or spices, like a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Sally Lunn Bread is delightful served warm with butter or jam. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. For a more savory experience, consider serving it alongside dishes like Dill Weed Dip or a hearty soup. It can also be used as a base for sandwiches, showcasing its versatility.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sally Lunn Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. To reheat, wrap slices in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain moisture and freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sally Lunn Bread contains roughly 349 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before baking. This allows for a more developed flavor and easier handling.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is ready when it's golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean for a perfectly baked loaf.
Can I freeze Sally Lunn Bread?
Absolutely! Allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it at room temperature 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).