Serve Warm: Slice it thick and serve with butter or honey — it tastes like home.
Storage: Wrap tightly in a clean kitchen towel. It stays soft for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Freeze: For longer storage, slice and freeze; toast straight from frozen for a morning treat.
Variations:
Herb & Garlic Version: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs for a savory twist.
Sweet Elise Loaf: Mix in ¼ cup raisins and 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a gentle, nostalgic sweetness.
Whole Grain Option: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this bread without yeast?
A: You can try baking soda and yogurt as a substitute, but you’ll lose the airy texture Elise loved.
Q: Why was this recipe so special to her?
A: According to a note tucked beneath the card, it was the first bread she baked after moving into her apartment — and she made it every Sunday for 50 years.
Q: What makes it “Golden Hearth Bread”?
A: The crust turns a deep golden hue, and the smell fills your home with warmth — a reminder that love, like yeast, grows when you give it time.
