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Classic White Bread Recipe

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White Bread Plus Recipe

Overview:

This White Bread Plus recipe, inspired by a 1950s version of Joy of Cooking, has stood the test of time as a family favorite, earning its place as a staple at holiday gatherings. With its soft texture and delightful flavor, this bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Each slice is packed with nostalgia and warmth, making it perfect for any occasion.

  • Preparation Time: 6 hours
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour and 7 minutes
  • Total Time: 7 hours and 7 minutes
  • Servings: 3-4 loaves
  • Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (18 reviews)

Ingredients:

  • 1 package active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115 degrees)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup melted lard (not hot)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 8 cups all-purpose flour
  • Aunt Jane’s Krazy Mixed Up Salt

Instructions:

  1. Proof the Yeast:

    • In a bowl, combine the yeast, 1/2 cup of warm water (105-115 degrees), and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Allow it to proof until foamy, approximately 5 minutes (or about 10 minutes for standard yeast).
  2. Mix the Dough:

    • Add the egg, melted lard, salt, and remaining sugar and water (105-115 degrees) to the yeast mixture.
  3. Incorporate Flour:

    • Stir in 4 cups of flour and beat (using a spoon or mixer) for one minute. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and can be handled.
  4. Knead the Dough:

    • Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead it until smooth and pliable, about 10 minutes.
  5. First Rise:

    • Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a greased mixing bowl. Turn the dough over so that the greased side is on top. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1-1 1/2 hours for rapid-rise yeast, or 2 hours for standard yeast.
  6. Second Rise:

    • Punch down the dough, turn it over in the bowl, and allow it to rise again until almost doubled in size.
  7. Form the Loaves:

    • Punch down the dough again and shape it into 3 large loaves, or 4 braided loaves. For braided loaves, cut the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll each into a long rope, and braid them into 4 loaves.
  8. Final Rise:

    • Allow the loaves to rise until they increase in size.
  9. Prepare for Baking:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Optionally, prepare an egg wash (1 egg, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon water) or use milk. Brush it over the loaves and sprinkle them with Aunt Jane’s Krazy Mixed Up Salt.
  10. Bake:

    • Place the loaves in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 17 minutes for braids or 30-40 minutes for loaves, until they are brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 421.9
  • Fat: 9.8g
    • Saturated Fat: 3.6g
  • Cholesterol: 23.6mg
  • Sodium: 300.1mg
  • Carbohydrates: 72.5g
    • Fiber: 2.4g
    • Sugar: 8.9g
  • Protein: 9.4g

Recipe Notes:

  • This bread freezes well, so feel free to make extra loaves for future enjoyment.
  • Experiment with different toppings or additions, such as sesame seeds or dried herbs, to customize the flavor of your bread.
  • Enjoy slices of this White Bread Plus toasted with butter or jam for a delightful breakfast treat, or use it to make sandwiches for a satisfying lunch.

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