Are you looking for a comforting, homemade bread recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This old-fashioned egg bread recipe is a delightful blend of simple ingredients and satisfying results. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a comforting snack, this recipe delivers a soft, fluffy loaf with a slightly sweet taste that will quickly become a family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner bakers can master, making it ideal for quick dinner ideas or a weekend baking project. Let's get started on this journey into delicious homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 6-7 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Instructions:
Getting Started:
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In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a successful rise. If your yeast doesn't foam, it may be dead, so start again with fresh yeast.
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Whisk in the salt, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
Kneading the Dough:
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Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. This is where you'll start to feel the satisfaction of homemade cooking.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is an excellent place for this rise.
Shaping and Second Rise:
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Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness – it should come out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the temptation to slice it while it's still warm!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use milk instead of water.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding raisins, cranberries, chopped nuts, or even shredded cheese to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons for a sweeter loaf.
- Different flours: Experiment with a portion of whole wheat flour for added nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This information will vary based on the exact ingredients and serving size. Use a nutrition calculator for precise details.
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Fat: Around 5-7g
- Protein: Around 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 25-30g
Enjoy your delicious, homemade egg bread! It’s the perfect example of how easy it is to create healthy meals and delicious dishes from scratch. This recipe is a fantastic addition to any baker’s repertoire, offering a comforting taste of simple homemade cooking and satisfying even the most discerning palates.