Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is soft, fluffy, and full of old-fashioned flavor. This classic white sandwich bread is made with simple pantry ingredients and a whole lot of love. Perfect for toast, sandwiches, or warm out of the oven with butter. It’s the kind of bread that turns a house into a home.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

  • 1/2 cup warm milk

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)

  • Butter for brushing the top (optional)


Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  2. Mix Dough: Stir in the warm milk, oil (or melted butter), salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined, then gradually add more flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

  3. Knead: Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.

  4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

  5. Shape & Second Rise: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and just over the top of the pan.

  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.

  7. Cool & Serve: Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack. Brush with melted butter for a soft, golden top if desired.


Notes

  • Don’t skip the second rise—it helps the bread get that light, airy texture.

  • You can swap some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

  • Leftover slices are perfect for French toast or grilled cheese!

 

  • This bread freezes beautifully—just slice and wrap tightly