There’s something magical about the aroma of homemade bread wafting through the kitchen—the kind that transports you to cozy mornings at grandma’s house, where a warm loaf sat proudly on the counter, golden-crusted and soft as a cloud.
This isn’t just bread; it’s a journey back in time, a lesson in patience, and a testament to the power of simple, honest ingredients. With its perfectly chewy crumb and delicately crisp crust, this homemade bread pairs beautifully with just about anything.
Slice it warm with a pat of butter for a nostalgic breakfast, or serve it alongside main courses like Broccoli Chicken Penne and comforting soups like Chicken Vegetable Stew. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease—because nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling a fresh, homemade loaf from the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Bread?
- A Taste of Tradition – My grandmother’s hands have shaped countless loaves over the years, and every bite of this bread reminds me of her unwavering patience and love for good food. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a legacy.
- No-Fuss, Foolproof Baking – If you’ve ever been intimidated by yeast, consider this your beginner-friendly guide. With a few simple techniques, you’ll master the perfect rise and that irresistible golden crust.
- Versatile and Adaptable – Toast it for breakfast, transform it into a rustic sandwich, or use it to soak up a rich stew. This bread is the ultimate kitchen chameleon.
- Global Inspiration, Local Soul – This classic loaf shares roots with French boules, Italian pancetta, and Southern buttermilk bread—proof that good bread is a universal language of comfort.
- Surprisingly Healthy – Unlike store-bought loaves with preservatives, this homemade version gives you full control over ingredients, making it a wholesome, gut-friendly choice.
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.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 171kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!
- Whole Wheat Bread – Swap half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, fiber-rich loaf. Add a tablespoon of honey for extra moisture and sweetness.
- Herb & Garlic Bread – Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil, along with a teaspoon of garlic powder for a savory twist.
- Cheesy Bread – Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella to the dough for a cheesy, flavorful loaf.
- Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Bread – Before rolling the dough into loaves, spread a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over it, then roll and place it in the pans for a lightly sweet, swirled bread.
- Seeded Bread – Sprinkle sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds into the dough or on top before baking for added crunch and nutrition.
