A Number One Egg Bread Recipe

Name: A Number One Egg Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 170 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1/4 cup warm water (about 43°C (110°F)); 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 5 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled)

170 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Fluffy and rich, this egg bread is perfect for sandwiches or toasting.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

170 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Egg bread, with its soft and slightly sweet flavour, is a versatile loaf cherished by many. This version, often referred to as 'a number one egg bread,' is celebrated for its fluffy texture and beautiful golden crust. It's ideal for those who love baking their own bread but want a recipe that's straightforward and consistently delivers perfect results. This recipe guides you through making a classic egg bread that rises beautifully and has a delicate crumb. It's perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a dependable bread recipe to add to their repertoire. Whether you're making sandwiches or enjoying it toasted with butter, this egg bread is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Pro tip: Ensure the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.

Mix the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and mix until combined.

Pro tip: Make sure the butter is not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs.

Form the dough

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much.

First rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Pro tip: Ideal rising temperature is between 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F).

Shape the loaf

Punch down the dough, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 23x13 cm (9x5 inch) loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Pro tip: For a more decorative look, you can braid the dough before placing it in the pan.

Bake the bread

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.

Pro tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminium foil.

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Tips & Tricks

Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Ensure your yeast is fresh for a good rise.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this egg bread a number one choice?

This egg bread is considered a number one choice due to its rich flavour and fluffy texture, making it versatile for various uses.

How many calories are in a slice of egg bread?

A single slice of this egg bread contains approximately 210 calories.

Can I use this egg bread for sandwiches?

Yes, this egg bread is perfect for sandwiches due to its soft texture and slight sweetness.

How long should I let the dough rise?

Let the dough rise for about 1 hour for the first rise, and 30 minutes for the second rise.

Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs?

Using room temperature eggs helps them incorporate better into the dough, resulting in a smoother texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this egg bread fresh from the oven with a generous spread of butter or use it as a base for your favourite sandwiches. It pairs especially well with soups and salads for a light lunch. This bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the loaf in slices to enjoy anytime. Simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen for a quick snack.