Few things are as comforting as the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Grandma’s Homemade Bread is a classic recipe that’s simple enough for beginners yet yields bakery-quality loaves every time. Soft, tender, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or slathering with butter, this recipe is a must-have for any home baker.

Ingredients:

2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
½ cup white sugar
1½ tablespoons active dry yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
¼ cup vegetable oil
5-6 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl or stand mixer, dissolve 2 tablespoons of the sugar in the warm water. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the remaining sugar, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Mix well using a rubber scraper or the dough hook attachment of your stand mixer.
Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time. Reserve the last cup and add it only if needed. The dough should clean the sides of the bowl but still stick slightly to the bottom, forming a small circle about the size of a quarter. Stop adding flour once the dough reaches this consistency.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 7 minutes, either by hand on a floured surface or in the stand mixer using the dough hook attachment. Set a timer to ensure a thorough knead, which is essential for a good rise.
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a well-oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface lightly. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Shape the Loaves: Punch the dough down and knead for 1 minute. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a loaf. Place the loaves into two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Second Rise: Cover the pans and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes, or until it rises 1 inch above the edge of the pans.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30-40 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Enjoy: Remove the loaves from the pans and cool on a wire rack. Brush the tops with butter for a soft, shiny finish. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes:

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves and thaw as needed.
Versatility: This recipe works well with whole wheat flour or can be enhanced with add-ins like seeds, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.

Grandma’s Homemade Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition of love and care baked into every loaf. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this bread is sure to bring joy to your table.

Check out my Brownie Mason Jar Mix or M&M Mason Jar Cookies for more inspiration.