17+ Thanksgiving Bread Loaf Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 2, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And one dish that is always a must-have on the Thanksgiving table is a warm, homemade bread loaf. This Thanksgiving bread loaf recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser and will add a touch of warmth and comfort to your holiday meal. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouth-watering bread loaf!
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
Making the Dough
Flour
To start off, you'll need 4 cups of all-purpose flour. For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour or a combination of both. The key to a perfectly textured bread is to use fresh and high-quality flour. Make sure to sift the flour before using it to prevent any clumps.
Yeast
Next, you'll need 1 packet of active dry yeast or 2 ¼ teaspoons if you're using bulk yeast. This is the leavening agent that will make your bread rise and give it that fluffy texture. Make sure to use fresh yeast and check the expiration date to ensure it's still active.
Milk and Butter
In a small saucepan, heat up 1 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of butter until the butter melts. This will give your bread a rich and buttery flavor. Make sure to use whole milk for a creamier texture, and unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your bread.
Sugar and Salt
Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt to the milk and butter mixture. These ingredients will add a touch of sweetness and enhance the flavors in your bread. You can adjust the amount of sugar and salt to your liking, but don't skip them as they are crucial for the taste of your bread.
Eggs
Lastly, add 2 beaten eggs to the mixture. The eggs will add moisture and richness to your bread. Make sure to use room temperature eggs to avoid any temperature shock to the dough.
Kneading and Rising
Now that you have all your ingredients, it's time to mix them together. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Baking the Bread
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased bread pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until it's golden brown on top. Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
The Final Touch
To add an extra festive touch to your Thanksgiving bread loaf, you can brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or dried cranberries on top before baking. This will not only add a pop of color but also give your bread a delicious crunch.
Now that you have the perfect Thanksgiving bread loaf recipe, it's time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this warm and comforting bread together. Happy Thanksgiving!