Transport yourself back to simpler times with this rustic "Old Time Bread" recipe, a timeless classic that delivers wholesome, homemade goodness. Crafted with pantry staples like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast, this bread features a soft, fluffy interior and a perfectly golden crust without any fancy ingredients. The hands-on process of kneading the dough and allowing it to rise twice ensures an irresistible texture reminiscent of freshly baked loaves from a traditional kitchen. With a prep time of just two hours, this versatile bread is ideal for everything from breakfast toast to hearty sandwiches. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner looking to embrace the art of breadmaking, this recipe delivers authentic flavor and rewards your patience with every slice. Serve it warm with butter or alongside your favorite homemade jam for a truly nostalgic treat!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy to activate the yeast.
Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, salt, and the softened or melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing after each addition. Once the dough becomes too stiff to mix with a spoon, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed, but don't overdo it.
Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough to release the air and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Cover the loaf pan with the kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes, or until the dough rises just above the rim of the pan.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is completing its second rise.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving size | 914.9 grams (914.9g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2078 |
Total Fat 28.40g | 36% |
Saturated Fat 15.50g | 78% |
Cholesterol 63mg | 21% |
Sodium 4735mg | 206% |
Total Carbohydrate 394.90g | 144% |
Dietary Fiber 14.90g | 53% |
Total Sugars 26.00g | |
Protein 53.40g | 107% |
Vitamin D 14IU | 71% |
Calcium 74mg | 6% |
Iron 23mg | 126% |
Potassium 711mg | 15% |
Source of Calories