Tanya'S Loaf Bread
A classic homemade loaf bread with a soft interior and crusty crust, perfect for sandwiches or toast, suitable for all bread enthusiasts seeking warm, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water and set aside.
- Combine 6 cups warm water, 2 tablespoons salt, and 6 tablespoons sugar in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the dissolved yeast and 2 tablespoons melted shortening to the mixture.
- Gradually add bread flour, a cup at a time, mixing with a mixer until dough climbs the beaters.
- Work in the remaining flour by hand until a good dough consistency is achieved.
- Let the dough rise in a greased pan until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 5 greased loaf pans.
- Let the dough rise until doubled again.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 45 minutes if using small pans, or 55 minutes for large pans.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with melted butter or vegetable oil. For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices to the dough. If you're short on time, you can use a bread machine for the mixing and rising stages.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf bread is perfect for sandwiches or toasted with butter and jam. It pairs beautifully with California Caesar Salad(Preparation Time: 10 Minutes) for a light meal. You can also serve it alongside soups or stews for a comforting dinner, or use it to make delicious French toast for breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread is completely cooled, store it in a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tanya'S Loaf Bread contains roughly 472 calories, with 16g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% 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
What should I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your water; it should be warm, around 110°F (43°C). Ensure your yeast is fresh and active; you can test it by dissolving it in warm water with a bit of sugar. If it doesn't foam after 10 minutes, it's no longer viable.
Can I make this bread recipe using whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat absorbs more moisture. Start with a mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat for a lighter texture, and then experiment with increasing the whole wheat content as you perfect the recipe.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C). If the crust is getting too dark, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil while baking.
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).