Yeast Bread Squares
Yeast bread squares featuring a soft, fluffy texture with a hint of nuttiness from poppy seeds, perfect for breakfast or a snack, appealing to bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine yeast and warm water in a large bowl.
- Add shortening, sugar, salt, and 2 cups of flour; beat 3 minutes at low speed of mixer.
- Stir in remaining flour and knead until smooth.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide dough into squares and place in a greased baking dish.
- Brush melted butter on top and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Bake until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot to the touch; this helps activate the yeast effectively. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with butter or margarine. Kneading the dough properly is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure. If you want to add flavor, consider mixing in herbs or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
These yeast bread squares are perfect as a side for soups or salads, adding a delightful texture to your meal. They pair beautifully with dishes like the classic Sour Milk Waffles for a brunch spread. Consider serving with a pat of butter or your favorite jam for a tasty snack. They also make a great base for mini sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover yeast bread squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze them for longer storage; wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yeast Bread Squares contains roughly 297 calories, with 9g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1505mg per serving (65% 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 as a substitute for dry yeast. Simply use the same amount; there's no need to proof it in water first. Just mix it directly with your dry ingredients. The dough may rise a bit faster, so keep an eye on it during the rising phase.
What should I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Check the expiration date on your yeast package. Ensure that the water used to activate the yeast is warm, between 100°F and 110°F (38°C to 43°C). If all else fails, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising.
Can I add other toppings or mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! You can customize your yeast bread squares by adding toppings like shredded cheese, herbs, or even chopped olives on top before baking. You can also mix in ingredients like minced garlic or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for added flavor. Experiment to find your perfect combination!
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).