Nola's Fresh Cajun Homemade Bread

8 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 20 m Total: 1 h 20 m Intermediate
5.0/5 (3)
The aroma of the yeast being added to the mixture can only be beat by the smell of this bread cooking. Make a memory and bake this today! This simple homemade bread recipe uses flour, yeast, warm milk, and sugar to create soft rolls or loaves perfect for soaking up Steen’s cane syrup.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1 package yeast or 2 1/4 teaspoons
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 1/2 cup to 4 cups flour
  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup warm milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the yeast with the warm water and let the mixture set for about 20 minutes to activate and become foamy.
  2. Combine the rest of the ingredients (salt, flour, oil, sugar, and warm milk) and add to the yeast mixture. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
  3. Let the dough rise in a warm place until double in size (about 45 minutes to 1 hour). Punch down and make either golf-ball size rolls, or 2 larger loaves. Allow the dough to rise again until double in size (about 30-45 minutes).
  4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  5. Dip in warm Steen’s syrup. Also great with milk.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why isn't my yeast foaming after 20 minutes?

A: Your water may be too hot (which kills the yeast) or too cold (which won't activate it). Aim for water between 100-110°F - it should feel warm but not hot to the touch. Also check that your yeast isn't expired.

Q: My dough isn't rising. What went wrong?

A: Make sure you're letting it rise in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the bowl in a turned-off oven with just the oven light on, or near (not on) a warm stovetop.

Q: How do I know when the dough has doubled in size?

A: Press two fingers about 1/2 inch into the dough. If the indentations remain, the dough has risen enough. It should look puffy and almost billowy.

Tips and Techniques

The warm milk and water should be around 100-110°F - warm to the touch but not hot, or it will kill the yeast. For a richer flavor, brush the tops of the rolls or loaves with melted butter right when they come out of the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • warm milk: warm water or warm buttermilk
  • vegetable oil: melted butter or coconut oil

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
  • Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap (for covering dough while rising)
  • Baking sheet or loaf pans

Historical Context

Steen’s Pure Cane Syrup has been made in Abbeville, Louisiana since 1910 and is a staple in Cajun pantries. Dipping fresh hot bread in warm syrup is a beloved Louisiana tradition, especially at breakfast or as an after-school treat.