Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s one of my favorite times of year, where the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey and pumpkin spice. But let me tell you, nothing elevates a Thanksgiving dinner quite like homemade bread. This simple bread recipe is my go-to for the holiday feast. I remember the first time I made it; the soft, warm loaf was an instant hit with my family, and I’ve been baking it ever since! The way it fills the house with that incredible, comforting smell is just magical. Trust me, this bread for Thanksgiving dinner will be the perfect companion to your turkey and stuffing!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious bread for Thanksgiving dinner. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: This will give your bread that perfect chewy texture.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Make sure it’s fresh for a good rise!
- 1 cup warm water: The warmth helps activate the yeast, so it’s crucial—think bathwater temperature!
- 2 tbsp sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness and helps the yeast do its job.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and controls the fermentation process.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For richness and to keep the bread moist.
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a loaf that will be the star of your Thanksgiving table!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part—baking this amazing bread for Thanksgiving dinner! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a warm, golden loaf that everyone will love.
- Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the warm water and sugar, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Next, sprinkle in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for it to get all frothy—that means it’s working!
- Once it’s frothy, add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Give it a quick stir to combine.
- Now, it’s time to add the flour. Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture, stirring until it all comes together into a sticky dough. Don’t worry if it seems a bit messy; that’s totally normal!
- Dust your countertop with a bit of flour, and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic—imagine giving it a little workout! If it feels too sticky, sprinkle on a bit more flour as needed.
- Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. It should double in size, which is always so exciting to see!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you wait. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Finally, bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool a bit before slicing, and then serve it warm!
And there you have it! Your homemade bread is ready to shine at your Thanksgiving dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread for Thanksgiving dinner is not just easy to make; it’s a delightful addition to your holiday spread! Here’s why I know you’re going to love it:
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious bread without a fuss.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of olive oil and a hint of sweetness creates a soft, flavorful loaf that complements your turkey and stuffing perfectly.
- Perfect Texture: You’ll get that lovely chewy crust on the outside while keeping the inside light and fluffy—just what you want for sopping up gravy!
- Family Favorite: It’s bound to become a cherished tradition at your Thanksgiving table, just like it is in my family.
- Homemade Comfort: Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home, making everyone feel cozy and welcome.
Trust me, once you serve this bread at your Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again!
Tips for Success
Want to ensure your bread for Thanksgiving dinner turns out perfectly? Here are some of my favorite tips to help you achieve that dreamy loaf every time!
- Kneading: Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic—about 5 minutes should do the trick. If it’s still sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface.
- Rising Time: Patience is key! Letting the dough rise until it doubles in size is crucial for a light, fluffy texture. If your kitchen is cool, try placing it in a warm spot, like near the oven while it preheats.
- Baking Tips: Keep an eye on your bread in the oven. If it’s not golden brown after 30 minutes, give it a few extra minutes but be careful not to overbake! A hollow sound when tapped is the perfect indicator it’s done.
- Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from getting soggy on the bottom.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to impressing your guests with a fantastic homemade bread!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to give your bread for Thanksgiving dinner a little twist, there are so many fun variations to try! Here are some ideas that’ll spark your creativity:
- Herb-Infused: Add a tablespoon of your favorite dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the dough for a fragrant, savory loaf.
- Garlic Bread: Mix in minced garlic or roasted garlic for a deliciously aromatic bread that pairs wonderfully with your holiday meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, during the mixing stage for a gooey, cheesy treat.
- Sweet Twist: For a sweeter version, mix in a handful of raisins or chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful breakfast option!
- Whole Wheat: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
These variations are easy to incorporate and can make your Thanksgiving bread even more special. Get creative and enjoy the process!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delightful bread for Thanksgiving dinner. This information is super handy for those who like to keep track of their intake while enjoying their holiday feast!
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
This nutritious bread is not only a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving table but also a guilt-free treat to complement all those delicious dishes! Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your Thanksgiving dinner, you might find yourself with some delicious leftover bread. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store it and keep it tasting fresh!
First, let the bread cool completely on a wire rack to avoid any sogginess. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. You can store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or for longer storage, pop it in the freezer! Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if it’s frozen. For a quick reheat, slice off what you need and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of freshly warmed bread filling your kitchen once again!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this fabulous bread for Thanksgiving dinner? No worries, I’ve got answers to help you out!
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Just use the same amount of instant yeast, and there’s no need to proof it in water. You can mix it directly with the dry ingredients!
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast or a cool kitchen. Always check your yeast’s expiration date and try to find a warm spot for rising, like near a preheating oven.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it and place it in the pan. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
What should I serve with this bread?
This bread pairs perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing, and even a rich gravy. It’s also fantastic with butter or jam for breakfast!
Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding herbs, cheese, or even nuts for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the dough slightly based on what you add!
With these answers, you’re all set to bake the best bread for Thanksgiving dinner! Happy baking!
Print
Bread for Thanksgiving Dinner: 5 Steps to Deliciousness
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious bread recipe perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Store bread in an airtight container.
- This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve warm for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bread for thanksgiving dinner
