There’s something magic about the aroma of homemade bread filling the kitchen, bringing back cherished memories of my childhood. My German grandma passed down this recipe, and it’s been with the family since, delivering a perfect balance of crusty exterior and soft, fluffy interior. This traditional bread recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish, with the yeast helping create that delightful rise that makes each slice tender.
This recipe is perfect for families looking to add a touch of warmth and tradition to their meals. It’s ideal for gatherings, a cozy evening at home, or as a great accompaniment to soups and stews. You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crust is perfectly crispy, giving a satisfying bite.
- It’s incredibly versatile—great on its own or with toppings.
- The dough is easy to work with, making it a fun cooking experience.
- This bread pairs well with any main dish, bringing flavors together beautifully.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious bread:
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tbsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
For the Topping
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Note: All-purpose flour can be substituted with bread flour for more chewiness.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Instant yeast can be swapped for active dry yeast.
- Use honey instead of sugar for sweetness.
- Olive oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version.
- Add herbs for extra flavor.
How to Make It
Start baking this delicious bread with ease by following these simple steps.
Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of flour, 2 tbsp of instant yeast, 1 tbsp of sugar, and 1 tbsp of salt. Stir well until thoroughly mixed.
Add warm water
Pour in 1 ½ cups of warm water into the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough forms.
Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Add a bit of flour if the dough is too sticky.
Let it rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the loaf
Once risen, punch down the dough to remove air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan.
Prepare for baking
Brush the top of the dough with 1 beaten egg and sprinkle 1 tbsp of sesame seeds over it.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in a sealed container for 3-5 days.
Freezer: Yes, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheat: Bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure your water temperature is around 110°F for optimal yeast activation.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for neat pieces.
- Experiment by adding garlic or herbs into the dough for extra flavor.
- Always use fresh yeast for better rise and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter and jam for breakfast.
- Pair with hearty soups or salads for lunch.
- Slice and use for sandwiches for a delicious dinner option.
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