How to Bake Bread in a Cast Iron Loaf Pan

Want to learn how to make soft and buttery homemade cast iron loaf bread at home? This simple recipe is beginner-friendly and requires only a few basic ingredients.

Once it’s cooled, it can be enjoyed with butter or jam or used to make sandwiches. Follow the easy steps, and in no time, you will have a delicious loaf of bread to enjoy!

I just finished making another loaf of this cast iron bread yesterday morning, just to have it on hand! It is so easy to make and tastes so much better than store-bought bread!

My kids always ask if I am making my French toast casserole with the bread! I have to admit, it is perfect for that recipe! Really, it’s perfect for anything!

I hope you love the recipe! I have included step-by-step pictures of the entire process, and if you would rather, check out the tutorial video in the recipe card!

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoon)
• 3 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, leveled
• 2 tablespoon sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• Egg wash, optional

Cast Iron Loaf Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate Yeast.

Mix water and milk together and heat to 100-110°F. Add yeast packet, whisk, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dough.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.

Step 3: Mix well.

Next, add the yeast mixture and softened butter, and mix well until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Knead the Dough.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes. It should be smooth and stretchable.

Step 4: Allow the dough to rise.

Add the dough back to the bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise for an hour in a warm area of the house. This step helps the dough achieve a light and airy texture.

Pro Tip: If it hasn’t doubled in size after an hour, heat your oven to 110°F, shut it off, and place the rising dough on the middle rack with the door slightly cracked.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf.

After an hour, punch the dough down and shape it into a loaf.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking.

Lightly grease your cast iron loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside. Cover and allow the dough to proof for an additional 40 minutes to an hour.

Note: Keep an eye on it to prevent it from over-rising otherwise, the middle will not cook through.

Step 7: Bake.

Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the bread for 40-45 minutes. When it is done it should be golden brown, presenting a crispy crust and a soft, buttery interior.

If using an egg wash, brush it on for the last 5 minutes of baking.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the cast iron loaf bread to rest on a cooling rack. Slice and enjoy!

The Best Homemade Bread Loaf Recipe

I have made this recipe many times and it always turns out perfect. The secret is to use a cast iron loaf pan.

It ensures even heat distribution and helps retain heat, resulting in evenly cooked bread with a crispy exterior and a moist interior.

Another great thing about this recipe is that you can make it ahead of time and use it for lunches throughout the week.

I love using this in place of my brioche bread in my brioche French toast recipe for breakfast or serve it as a side to your favorite pork neck bone soup or my Salisbury steak recipe. The possibilities are endless with this versatile bread recipe.

I love making pork rib sandwiches with it and using leftovers from my dutch oven spare ribs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Take your bread to the next level.

Spice up your bread by trying out different variations. You can add cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist or use herbs for a savory flavor.

To do this, simply brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and generously sprinkle the desired ingredients on top before baking.

Storing

To prevent the bread from getting stale, store it in an airtight container such as a bread box, zippered bag, or whatever else you may have.

If you want to prolong its shelf life, you can freeze it. Freeze it whole or in slices for up to 3 months. The bread stays fresher if you don’t slice it before freezing.

When you want to defrost it, you have a few options. If it’s frozen whole, you can stick it in the oven or microwave, and if it’s sliced, throw it into the toaster to defrost.

Enjoy Your Cast Iron Loaf Pan Bread!

If you want something quick and tasty, enjoy the buttery, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s a great addition to any meal or a simple snack. I love having a large slice of bread smothered with creamy butter or jam for a simple snack.

Enjoyed this post? Try more bread recipes.

• Cranberry French Toast Casserole
• Homemade Artisan Style Cheese Bread
• Cast Iron Chocolate Chip Banana Bread