Yeast Bread(Four Loaves)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

This classic yeast bread yields four loaves with a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for family meals, picnics, or sharing with friends. Easy to customize and bake.

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Ingredients

  • 4 pkg. yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 3/4 quart scalded milk
  • 5 pounds plus flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons salt
  • 1/4 cup shortening

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the yeast in warm water.
  2. Add the yeast mixture to the cooled, scalded milk.
  3. Combine dry ingredients and gradually mix into the wet ingredients until the dough is not sticky.
  4. Let the dough rise for 60 minutes until it has doubled in size.
  5. Divide the dough into four loaves and place in loaf pans.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, make sure your milk is cooled before adding it to the yeast mixture; too hot can kill the yeast. If you run out of flour, you can substitute a portion with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Additionally, knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure. If you're in a hurry, you can use rapid-rise yeast to speed up the process.

Serving Suggestions

This yeast bread is perfect for sandwiches or served alongside soups and salads, like Gertie'S Salad. You can also top slices with butter, jams, or spreads for breakfast. For a delightful dessert, serve with Player'S Bread Pudding made from day-old slices. Pair it with a warm beverage for a comforting meal.

Storage & Reheating

Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag; it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or toast slices directly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yeast Bread(Four Loaves) contains roughly 2878 calories, with 63g protein, 438g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), protein (126% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2804mg per serving (122% of the Daily Value).

2878 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 63.2g 100% DV
Total Fat 96.2g 100% DV
Carbs 438.2g 100% DV
Fiber 24.3g 87% DV
Sugar 3.9g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2804mg 100% DV
Potassium 1670.8mg 36% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 73.3mg 81% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 180.4mg 14% DV
Iron 25.9mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 doesn't rise?

If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is right; it should be warm, not hot. If the environment is too cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot or using an oven with just the light on to create a warm atmosphere for rising.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture and density of the bread. Start by substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat to see how you like the flavor and texture. You may need to adjust the water slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F. If you prefer a crusty exterior, leave the bread in the oven for an additional few minutes after it’s golden.

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).

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