Virginia Box Bread
Virginia Box Bread is a soft, buttery yeast bread with a golden crust, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, appealing to bread lovers seeking homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Add eggs, salt, sugar, melted and cooled butter, and 2 cups of flour. Beat until smooth.
- Add enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Put the dough in a greased bowl and turn once to grease the top.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- On a lightly floured board, roll out the dough to fit a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Place the dough in the prepared pan.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 12 squares.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size again.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water temperature is between 110 to 115°F to properly activate the yeast. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. You can also use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, but start with less liquid as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Virginia Box Bread is perfect as a side for soups or stews or served with butter and jam for breakfast. Consider pairing it with a hearty Lentil Roast (Low-Fat) for a satisfying meal. It also makes delicious sandwiches; try it with your favorite fillings for a tasty lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Virginia Box Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia Box Bread contains roughly 116 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% 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 dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry yeast. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in water first. This may slightly shorten the rising time, so keep an eye on the dough during the first rise.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it might be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and verify that the water temperature was correct. Additionally, place the dough in a warm area, such as an oven preheated to a low temperature and then turned off, to encourage rising.
Can I add herbs or cheese to this bread?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor. You can also mix in shredded cheese before kneading for a savory twist. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as additional ingredients may affect the dough 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).