Name: Mamaw’s Homemade Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients: 3 cups lukewarm water; 2 tbsp sugar or honey; 3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil; 2 tsp salt; 2 tsp active dry yeast; 6 to 8 cups bread flour (as needed to make a smooth dough)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for that comforting, warm-from-the-oven loaf that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma and tastes like a hug, then Mamaw’s Homemade Bread is exactly what you need. This classic bread recipe has been lovingly passed down and perfected over time, delivering a soft, tender crumb with a golden crust that’s perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, Mamaw’s Homemade Bread will become your go-to for fresh, homemade goodness that tastes better than anything you can buy at the store.

Mamaw’s Homemade Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is a breeze with this recipe, and each one plays a crucial role in the final texture and flavor of your bread. These simple staples come together to create that perfect balance between fluffy inside and a golden, crusty outside.

3 cups lukewarm water: The warm water activates the yeast to help your bread rise beautifully.
2 tbsp sugar or honey: Adds natural sweetness and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
2 tsp salt: Essential for flavor enhancement and controls the yeast’s growth.
2 tsp active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes your dough rise and become airy.
3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender with a slight hint of richness.
6-8 cups bread flour: Provides structure; add just enough to form a smooth, elastic dough.

How to Make Mamaw’s Homemade Bread

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by combining lukewarm water, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the surface – this gentle approach wakes it up for a lively rise. Add in the oil and then stir in the flour, starting slowly and gradually adding more as you knead. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until your dough is smooth and elastic – you’ll feel it transform under your hands.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for about an hour in a warm spot. During this time, the yeast works its magic, and your dough will double in size, becoming light and airy – an exciting sign that Mamaw’s Homemade Bread is on its way.

Step 3: Punch Down and Second Rise

Oil your hands and the bowl lightly, then punch down the dough to release any large air bubbles. Cover it again and let it rise for another hour. This second rise deepens the flavor and improves the texture, making that bread even more irresistible.

Step 4: Shape and Final Rise

Divide the dough evenly between two oiled bread pans. Gently press down to remove air pockets and shape your loaves. Cover them and let rise for 30 minutes – the dough needs this last rest to get fluffy and perfect before baking.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until the tops turn a lovely light brown. If you want that extra touch of indulgence, brush melted butter over the freshly baked loaves for a soft, flavorful crust that’s simply dreamy.

How to Serve Mamaw’s Homemade Bread

Garnishes

A simple pat of butter can bring out the richness of Mamaw’s Homemade Bread wonderfully. You can also try spreading it with homemade jams, honey, or even a sprinkle of herbs and garlic-infused olive oil for a savory twist.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups, stews, and chilis – perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. It’s also delightful alongside fresh salads, cheeses, or as the base for your favorite sandwiches.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice it thick and toast it up for breakfast topped with smashed avocado or nut butter. Tear it apart and serve with a fondue, or even use it to make a rustic bread pudding with a twist. Mamaw’s Homemade Bread is your versatile canvas for delicious creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay soft and tasty for a couple of days, perfect for quick snacks or sandwiches.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the loaves whole or sliced inside a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy Mamaw’s Homemade Bread anytime by simply pulling a slice or two from the freezer.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster or in the oven wrapped in foil. A quick 5-10 minute bake at 350°F works wonders to refresh your bread’s soft interior and slightly crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the bread flour, but keep in mind the texture will be denser and the rise might be a bit slower. Experimenting with ratios will help you find the perfect balance.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour gradually as you knead until it reaches that smooth, elastic feel. Too much flour, though, can make the bread dry, so add cautiously.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Your bread is done when the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Using an instant-read thermometer can also help – aim for an internal temperature around 190°F.

Can I make this bread without a bread pan?

Yes! You can shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and bake it on a parchment-lined baking sheet instead. Keep an eye on baking time, which may be slightly shorter or longer depending on loaf size.

Why does my bread sometimes come out dense instead of fluffy?

Dense bread can result from under-kneading, not letting the dough rise enough, or using water that’s too hot or too cold. Following the steps carefully and giving the yeast time to do its job is key to fluffy Mamaw’s Homemade Bread.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Mamaw’s Homemade Bread enough—it’s truly a labor of love that fills your home with warmth and creates memories around the table. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in so many hearts. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of baking bread that tastes like home.

Mamaw’s Homemade Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 21 reviews

Author: Matteo
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Mamaw’s Homemade Bread is a classic, soft, and fluffy bread recipe made from scratch using simple ingredients. This easy-to-follow bread recipe calls for active dry yeast, water, sugar or honey, salt, oil, and flour, resulting in delicious homemade loaves perfect for sandwiches or to enjoy with butter.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

3 cups lukewarm water
2 tbsp sugar or honey
3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil

Dry Ingredients

2 tsp salt
2 tsp active dry yeast
6 to 8 cups bread flour (as needed to make a smooth dough)

Instructions

Prepare the yeast mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar or honey, and salt. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for a few minutes to activate.
Add oil and flour: Add the vegetable or olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the bread flour, beginning with about 6 cups. Continue adding flour as needed while kneading until the dough forms a smooth, elastic consistency. Knead the dough for about 6 to 8 minutes.
First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm area for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down and second rise: Lightly oil your hands and the bowl. Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Cover it again and allow it to rise a second time until doubled, approximately another hour.
Shape and third rise: Divide the dough evenly between two greased bread pans. Punch down the dough once more to eliminate any trapped air bubbles, shape into loaves, and place them in the pans. Cover and let the loaves rise for about 30 minutes.
Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 30 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Optional finishing: Remove the bread from the oven and, if desired, spread butter over the tops of the loaves while still warm for added flavor and softness. Allow the bread to cool before slicing and serving.

Notes

The amount of flour may vary depending on humidity and flour brand; add gradually to achieve the right dough consistency.
Ensure water is lukewarm (around 110°F or 43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
For a slightly sweeter bread, honey can be used instead of sugar.
You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a richer flavor.
Letting the dough rise sufficiently is crucial to achieve soft, fluffy bread.
Store leftover bread in an airtight container or bread box to maintain freshness for several days.
You may freeze baked bread wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Southern