If you’re looking for a super simple homemade bread, yogurt bread is the way to go. With just two main ingredients, it’s easy to make and turns out soft, slightly tangy, and totally delicious. You don’t need any fancy tools or baking skills—just mix, bake, and enjoy. It’s perfect as a side for dinner, for sandwiches, or even toasted with a bit of butter.
Why We Love This Yogurt Bread Recipe
The beauty of yogurt bread lies in its simplicity and versatility. Using self-rising flour and yogurt, this bread is not only easy to prepare but also requires no complicated steps. You don’t need any fancy baking equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Moreover, the yogurt adds a depth of flavor and a pleasant creaminess that elevates the bread. Each bite offers a subtle tang, a perfect complement to the soft, slightly chewy texture.
You’ll find that this bread is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, can be toasted for breakfast, or simply enjoyed with a smear of butter or jam. Furthermore, it’s an excellent base for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads. This recipe not only simplifies your baking routine but also opens the door to endless possibilities in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Yogurt Bread
To whip up this yogurt bread, you only need a couple of straightforward ingredients.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 4 cups self-rising flour
- 2 1/3 cups plain whole milk yogurt
With just these two items, you’re on your way to creating a bread that is both delicious and easy to make.
How to Make Yogurt Bread
Making yogurt bread is a straightforward process that begins with combining your ingredients. Start by taking a large mixing bowl and combining the self-rising flour with the yogurt. Stir them together until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t be alarmed by its texture; this is completely normal.
Once your dough begins to come together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. This is an important step because it allows the dough to rest and develop flavor. You can place the bowl in the refrigerator for anywhere from 4 to 12 hours. This resting period helps the gluten relax and the flavors to meld, resulting in a beautifully developed dough.
After your dough has rested, it’s time to bring it to life. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) while placing a large Dutch oven inside to heat up. This is crucial as it mimics a professional bread-baking environment, helping your bread achieve a perfect crust.
Once the oven is preheated, it’s time to shape your bread. Start by wetting your hands slightly, which will prevent the dough from sticking to you. Gently fold the dough inwards from all sides, creating a smooth, round shape. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a ball.
Next, you’ll need parchment paper to make transferring the dough easier. Place the dough ball onto the parchment paper and then carefully transfer this to your preheated Dutch oven. To create steam (which is key to a good crust), add a few ice cubes to the bottom of the oven before covering it.
Bake the dough covered for 35 minutes. After that time, remove the lid and reduce the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Allow it to bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bread is beautifully browned.
The final step is to let your bread cool before serving. This cooling period allows the bread to finish cooking and helps set the texture. You’ll find the aroma of freshly baked bread is hard to resist, making it a wonderful treat for your home.
How to Serve Yogurt Bread
Now that your yogurt bread is beautifully baked and cooled, it’s time to discover how best to enjoy it. One of the joys of this bread is its versatility. You can serve it as a side to any main dish, whether it’s grilled vegetables, a hearty stew, or a light salad.
If you’re in the mood for a simple breakfast, consider toasting slices of yogurt bread to bring out its golden crust. Top it with a little butter and your favorite jam for a quick and delightful start to your day. You can also use it to create delicious breakfast sandwiches. A slice of yogurt bread makes an excellent base for eggs, cheese, or even avocado.
For lunch or dinner, this bread pairs wonderfully with various toppings. You can spread some hummus, layer it with roasted vegetables, or make a classic deli sandwich with your choice of fillings. The possibilities are truly endless, making yogurt bread an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
Expert Tips for Yogurt Bread
To ensure your baking experience is as smooth as possible, keep the following expert tips in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your bread will greatly depend on the quality of your flour and yogurt. Opt for fresh, whole milk yogurt for the best taste and texture.
- Monitor Your Dough: If your dough seems too sticky or too dry, feel free to adjust. You can sprinkle in a bit more flour if it’s too wet or add a little extra yogurt to moisten a dry dough.
- Work Quickly but Gently: While handling the dough, be gentle. Overworking can lead to tough bread, while a gentle touch keeps the texture soft.
- Experiment with Add-ins: If you’d like to add some flavor, consider mixing in herbs, cheese, or spices to your dough for a twist on the classic recipe.
How to Store Yogurt Bread
Storing your yogurt bread properly will help maintain its freshness. After cooling, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will protect it from drying out. You can store the wrapped bread at room temperature for up to three days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, slice the bread and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container with parchment paper between the slices. This will make it easy to grab a slice or two later on. Yogurt bread can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Variations of Yogurt Bread
While the classic yogurt bread is excellent on its own, you can take it up a notch by experimenting with a few variations. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Herbed Yogurt Bread: Mixing in fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil can infuse your bread with wonderful flavors.
- Cheese Yogurt Bread: Adding shredded cheese into the dough can result in a savory loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or just enjoying with butter.
- Sweet Yogurt Bread: For a sweeter option, stir in a bit of honey or sugar, along with some cinnamon or vanilla extract. This makes for a delightful snack or breakfast treat.
Feel free to get creative with different flavors and mix-ins. You may discover your favorite variations!
FAQs about Yogurt Bread
What is yogurt bread?
Yogurt bread is a simple homemade bread made primarily with self-rising flour and plain yogurt. The yogurt adds moisture and flavor, resulting in a soft, slightly tangy loaf that is easy to prepare.
How long does yogurt bread last?
When stored correctly, yogurt bread can last up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it can maintain its quality for up to three months.
Can I use Greek yogurt for this recipe?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in this recipe. It will provide a richer flavor and slightly denser texture, but the bread will still turn out delicious.
What can I serve with yogurt bread?
Yogurt bread is versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed with butter and jam. You can also use it to make sandwiches.
Is yogurt bread easy to make?
Absolutely! This recipe involves simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Yogurt Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups self-rising flour
- 2 1/3 cups plain whole milk yogurt
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour with yogurt until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 4 to 12 hours.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a large Dutch oven inside to heat.
- Wet your hands slightly and gently fold the dough inwards from all sides to form a smooth ball.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape into a ball.
- Place the dough ball onto parchment paper and transfer it into the preheated Dutch oven.
- Add a few ice cubes to the bottom of the oven to create steam, and cover with the lid.
- Bake the dough covered for 35 minutes, then remove the lid and reduce the temperature to 425°F (218°C).
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bread is beautifully browned.
Cooling
- Allow the bread to cool before serving to let the texture set.