Homemade Potato Bread

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, and homemade potato bread takes it to a whole new level. Soft, fluffy, and delightfully tender, this bread strikes the perfect balance between richness and simplicity.

Infused with the moisture and flavor of mashed potatoes and butter, potato bread offers an irresistible texture that’s perfect for everything from hearty sandwiches to a buttery breakfast toast. Its golden crust and pillow-soft interior make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether served alongside a family-style dinner or enjoyed on its own, this recipe brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. Baking it at home ensures every slice is fresh, flavorful, and made with care.

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Homemade Potato Bread: Key Ingredients That Make It Special

• Potatoes: The star ingredient, lending unparalleled moisture and a tender texture that elevates this bread to cloud-like softness.
• Warm Milk: A soothing base that activates the yeast and ensures a perfectly fluffy rise.
• Instant Yeast: The magic behind the bread’s airy structure and delightful bounce.
• All-Purpose & Bread Flour: A balanced duo that forms the sturdy yet supple foundation of the loaf.
• Salted Butter: A touch of richness and melt-in-your-mouth softness in every bite.

Recipe Tips

1. Mastering the Dough Texture: Achieving the perfect dough texture is key to this bread’s fluffy interior. When kneading, ensure the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, sprinkle a little flour; if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of potato water.
2. Optimal Yeast Activation: Use warm milk that’s between 105°F and 110°F to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot, and you risk killing the yeast; too cool, and the dough won’t rise properly. A kitchen thermometer can help you nail this step.
3. Reserve Potato Water Smartly: The starchy potato water adds structure and flavor to the bread. Let it cool to lukewarm before adding it to the dough to avoid affecting yeast activation. This small step ensures a well-risen, flavorful loaf.

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What to Serve with Homemade Potato Bread

1. Classic Pairing – Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of salted butter or fruit preserves over a slice of potato bread for a simple, satisfying breakfast or snack. The rich, fluffy texture of the bread complements sweet or savory spreads perfectly.
2. Hearty Sandwiches: This bread’s soft yet sturdy structure makes it an excellent base for hearty sandwiches. Pair it with deli meats, crisp lettuce, and creamy sauces for a lunchtime favorite.
3. Family Dinner Side: Serve warm slices alongside soups, stews, or roasted meats. Its moist, pillowy texture is perfect for soaking up rich gravies or broths, adding a comforting touch to any meal.

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FAQ

1. Can I use a substitute for bread flour?
   Yes, you can replace bread flour with more all-purpose flour. However, bread flour adds extra structure, so your loaf may be slightly less chewy without it.
2. Why is my dough not rising?
   This could be due to inactive yeast or incorrect liquid temperature. Ensure your milk is warm but not hot, and verify the freshness of your yeast before starting.
3. Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
   Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand, though it may take longer to achieve the smooth, elastic texture required for a perfect loaf.
4. How should I store the bread?
   Keep it in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the whole loaf or slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

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Homemade Potato Bread

Soft and tender, this potato bread is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enriched with the moisture and richness of potatoes and butter, it’s the ultimate choice for sandwiches, toast, or a comforting family-style meal accompaniment.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bread flour
• 1 ½ cups diced potatoes
• 1 ¼ cups warm milk
• ½ cup salted butter softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

 

• Cook and Prepare the Potatoes
• Place the diced potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender. Drain the potatoes, reserving one cup of the cooking liquid. Mash the potatoes until smooth and allow them to cool for 20–30 minutes.
• Activate the Yeast
• In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Whisk lightly until blended, then let the mixture rest for approximately five minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
• Incorporate Dry Ingredients
• Attach the dough hook to the mixer. Add the all-purpose flour, bread flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until a rough, dry dough begins to form.
• Add Wet Ingredients
• Gradually pour in the reserved potato water while kneading, allowing the dough to come together. Follow with the mashed potatoes and softened butter, continuing to knead until the dough becomes cohesive and pliable.
• Knead and Rest the Dough
• Knead the dough on medium speed for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Loaves
• After the first rise, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide it into two equal portions. Fold the sides of each portion inward and pinch to seal. Shape into smooth logs and place them in greased loaf pans. Cover lightly and let rise for another hour.
• Bake the Bread
• Preheat the oven to 350°F during the final rise. Once the dough has risen, bake the loaves on the middle rack for 35–40 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the bread is fully cooked through.
• Cool and Slice
• Remove the loaves from the oven and transfer them to a wire cooling rack. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing or storing.

Notes

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight bag or container for up to five days at room temperature. Keeping the loaf whole rather than slicing helps maintain freshness.
Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk temperature is between 105°F–110°F to avoid deactivating the yeast.
Doneness Check: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the bread’s internal temperature reaches 190°F for optimal results.

Keyword Homemade Potato Bread