Rustic, hearty, and irresistibly satisfying, the Poor Boy Loaf is a timeless homemade bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Crafted with basic pantry staples like all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and a touch of melted butter, this recipe delivers a soft, airy interior with a beautifully golden crust. The dough comes together effortlessly, requiring just a few minutes of kneading before rising to perfection. For a rustic touch, a sprinkle of cornmeal adds a delightfully textured finish. Ready in under 2 hours, this versatile loaf is perfect for sandwiches, a cozy side to soups, or simply enjoyed warm with a pat of butter. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy bread recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
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In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.
Mix the ingredients together with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the top, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal for a rustic finish.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
Cover the dough again and let it rise for 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving size | (796.0g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1859.3 |
Total Fat 27.8g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 15.2g | 0% |
Cholesterol 62mg | 0% |
Sodium 4732.8mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 348.6g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 13.6g | 0% |
Total Sugars 13.6g | |
Protein 47.2g | 0% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 66.7mg | 0% |
Iron 20.1mg | 0% |
Potassium 615.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories