Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread Recipe
This homemade bread is soft, fluffy, and full of nostalgia, just like Grandma used to make. It has a light, airy texture with a golden crust, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. A simple yet foolproof recipe for bakery-style loaves.
Equipment
- Stand mixer with a dough hook
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
- Baking sheet (optional for stability)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp yeast
- 2½ cup warm water
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp oil
- ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Allow the yeast to proof until it bubbles, about 5 minutes.
- Using the dough hook attachment, gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until the dough forms and becomes soft.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until it is smooth and elastic, shaping it into a ball.
- Lightly coat a large bowl with oil, place the dough inside, and cover it.
- Let it rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare two 9×5-inch loaf pans by greasing and flouring them.
- Punch down the dough to release air, then divide it into two equal portions.
- Roll each into a loaf shape and place them in the prepared pans.
- Let the loaves rise again for another 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until they have doubled in size.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, cool for 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy.
Notes
- For a softer crust, brush the loaves with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Bread flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
- To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow.