Potato bread is a comforting, soft, and flavorful bread that is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a bit of butter. The addition of mashed potatoes to the dough not only makes the bread incredibly tender but also adds a subtle sweetness and extra moisture. This recipe will guide you through making potato bread from scratch, ensuring a delightful result every time.
Ingredients for Perfectly Soft and Easy Potato Bread
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
How to Make Perfectly Soft and Easy Potato Bread
Introduction
Making potato bread might seem like a bit of a project, but the process is straightforward and the result is well worth the effort. The key to a perfect loaf of potato bread is in the preparation of the potatoes and the careful kneading of the dough. This recipe ensures a fluffy, moist bread that stays fresh longer than most traditional loaves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Begin by peeling and cubing the russet potatoes. Place them in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pan. Mash them until smooth. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
- Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, softened butter, and the yeast mixture.
- Add the egg and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Add salt with the final addition of flour.
- Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the top of the pan.
- Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the potato bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
About the Main Ingredients
- Potatoes: Potatoes add moisture and a tender crumb to the bread. They also help extend the shelf life of the bread, keeping it soft for longer.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast is used to leaven the bread, causing it to rise and become fluffy. It’s essential for the texture and volume of the final product.
- Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and enriches the dough with flavor and softness.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the bread. It also helps make the bread tender.
- Sugar: Provides a slight sweetness and helps feed the yeast for a better rise.
- Flour: The primary structure of the bread, providing the necessary gluten for elasticity and texture.
By following these steps, you’ll create a loaf of potato bread that’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or use it to make delicious sandwiches and toast.
