Grandmother’s Soft Bread Loaves
A time-honored recipe for soft, golden bread loaves that carry the warmth of family traditions. Perfect for gatherings or an everyday treat!
Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup warm water (not too hot, about 43°C/110°F)
- 3/4 cup hot milk (just heated, not boiling)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- For Enrichment:
- 7 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon sunflower seed oil
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- Dry Ingredients:
- 6 cups wheat flour (sifted, for a softer texture)
- For Finishing:
- Butter (to taste, a small piece for each loaf)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten, for brushing)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by mixing the warm water and hot milk in a large mixing bowl. The combination of temperatures will create the perfect warmth for activating yeast. Add the dry yeast and sugar, stirring gently to dissolve. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, or until a frothy layer forms on top—this indicates the yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Incorporate the Oils and Salt:
Once the yeast is activated, stir in the sunflower seed oil and fine salt. These ingredients not only add flavor but also help create the soft, tender texture that makes this bread irresistible.
3. Add the Flour Gradually:
Begin adding the sifted flour, one cup at a time, into the wet mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients. Continue adding flour until the dough starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl but remains slightly sticky.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 8-10 minutes, folding, pressing, and turning the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough springs back slightly when poked.
5. Shape the Loaves:
Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then shape it into small oval or round loaves, depending on your preference. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each loaf to allow for rising.
Brush the tops with a light layer of sunflower seed oil and place a small piece of butter on each loaf. The butter will melt during baking, creating a rich, golden top.
6. Allow to Rise:
Cover the loaves with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 15 minutes. They’ll puff up slightly, becoming soft and airy.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). While the oven heats, gently brush the tops of the loaves with a beaten egg. This step adds a beautiful sheen and helps them turn golden brown. If you’d like, use a sharp knife or blade to make shallow cuts on the tops of the loaves. These cuts not only look decorative but also help the bread expand evenly during baking.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaves in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The loaves should rise beautifully, with a golden, slightly crisp crust. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of a loaf—it should sound hollow.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool slightly. The aroma of fresh bread will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait! Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Tips for Success:
- Make it your own: Add a sprinkle of seeds or herbs to the tops before baking for a personalized touch.
- Freezing: These loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly once cooled and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.
- Family tradition: Share this recipe with loved ones, just as your grandmother did, to pass on the tradition.
Each step in this recipe carries the warmth and simplicity of homemade bread, ensuring a delicious result that brings comfort and joy to your table. Enjoy these loaves as a slice of family history baked into every bite.