Homemade Wonder Bread: A Soft and Delightful Yeast Bread Recipe
When it comes to bread that embodies the essence of comfort and nostalgia, few can rival the allure of homemade Wonder Bread, which closely resembles the soft white loaves available in stores. This delightful bread boasts a tender crumb and a subtly sweet flavor profile, making it perfect for everything from sandwiches to toast. The preparation process is straightforward, requiring only basic ingredients and a bit of patience as it rises. If you prefer a softer crust, a simple trick is to butter the top and place the loaf in a zip-lock bag once it cools. This will keep the crust soft and inviting, ready for any topping you desire.
This recipe, perfect for family gatherings or weekday meals, is not only easy to follow but also ensures that you can enjoy fresh bread without any preservatives. Below, you will find the detailed ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions that will guide you to create this delightful loaf at home.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Warm water | 1/4 cup + 1 cup |
| White sugar | 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Powdered milk | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Margarine | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information Table (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2510.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 37.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 92.1 mg |
| Sodium | 5012.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 472.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.2 g |
| Sugars | 76.6 g |
| Protein | 65.6 g |
Note: The nutritional information is based on the entire loaf, which yields about 16 slices, and is approximate.
Recipe Instructions Table
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by whisking together the active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of warm water, and 1/4 cup of white sugar in a mixing bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for approximately 15 minutes to activate the yeast, creating a bubbly foam that indicates it is ready to use. |
| 2 | In a bread machine, add the ingredients in the order suggested by the manufacturer. This typically includes the yeast mixture you just prepared, followed by the warm water (1 cup), all-purpose flour, powdered milk, salt, remaining sugar (2 tablespoons), and the butter. |
| 3 | Select the basic setting for the bread machine, choosing the light crust option for a softer finish. |
| 4 | As the machine kneads the dough, you will notice it transforms from a sticky mixture into a smooth, elastic dough, indicating that the gluten has developed properly. This kneading process should take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. |
| 5 | Once the dough has finished kneading, allow it to proof in the bread machine until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen. |
| 6 | After the dough has risen sufficiently, gently punch it down to release the gas bubbles, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 2 lb loaf pan, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise again until it has risen above the edges of the pan, which will take about 30 to 45 minutes. |
| 7 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen a second time, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. |
| 8 | For a softer crust, you can brush the top of the bread with melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven. This not only adds flavor but helps to soften the crust. |
| 9 | Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you desire an ultra-soft crust, place the cooled loaf in a zip-lock bag. This step helps retain moisture and keeps the crust tender. |
| 10 | Slice and enjoy your freshly baked homemade Wonder Bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply as a side with your favorite meal. |
This homemade Wonder Bread recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its soft texture and delightful flavor, making it a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as part of a hearty sandwich, this bread is sure to be a family favorite. With a little time and love, you’ll create a loaf that rivals any store-bought version, providing a wholesome option for your meals.
If you have enjoyed making this recipe, feel free to explore more on Love With Recipes, where we celebrate the joy of baking and cooking together. Happy baking!
