This Rice Yeast Bread is a delightful and soft loaf that brings together the heartiness of all-purpose flour and the subtle sweetness and moisture of cooked rice. The yeast transforms the dough into a light, fluffy texture, while the rice adds tenderness and a chewy crumb. Ideal for sandwiches, toasts, or even a warm slice slathered with butter, this bread strikes a balance between rustic flavor and tender softness, making it an excellent choice for everyday baking. Whether you’re new to homemade bread or a seasoned baker, this recipe offers a fail-proof path to a nourishing and versatile loaf.
Preparation, cook, and total times
Preparation Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes rising time)
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield
1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
Cuisine
Homestyle / Artisan Baking / Fusion
A full list of ingredients
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1 cup cooked rice (any type, preferably soft white rice or jasmine)
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1 cup warm water (about 100°F or 38°C)
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1/4 cup warm milk
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1 tablespoon sugar
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2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for softer crust)
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Extra flour for dusting
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Butter or oil for greasing pan
Step-by-step cooking directions
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Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. -
Combine the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the activated yeast mixture. Stir well to break up the rice slightly and incorporate it into the liquid. -
Add the flour and knead
Gradually add in the flour, mixing continuously until a dough begins to form. Add the salt. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and only slightly sticky. -
First rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. -
Shape the dough
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Transfer the loaf to a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30–40 minutes. -
Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown on top and it sounds hollow when tapped. -
Cool and serve
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional information (per slice, approx. based on 12 slices)
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Calories: 180 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 3g
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Saturated fat: 1g
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Sodium: 180mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 1g
The origins and popularity of the recipe
The combination of grains in breadmaking isn’t new. Many cultures, especially in Asia and parts of the Middle East, have explored incorporating rice into baked or steamed breads. While traditional Western breads focus on wheat flour, adding rice is both economical and nutritional. In recent years, home bakers have revived interest in rice bread as a way to reduce gluten content, use leftovers creatively, and experiment with texture and moisture retention in loaves.
Reasons why you’ll love the recipe
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Incredibly soft, tender crumb
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Subtly sweet and moist thanks to rice
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Stays fresh longer than traditional bread
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Versatile for sweet or savory uses
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A great way to use up leftover rice
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Beginner-friendly dough
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Bakes up golden with minimal effort
Health benefits
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Rich in energy: The combination of rice and flour offers sustained energy from complex carbs.
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Digestive-friendly: The added rice softens the texture, making it gentler on digestion.
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Lower in gluten: Although not gluten-free, the added rice reduces the total gluten content.
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Balanced nutrition: Eggs and yeast add protein and B-vitamins.
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Moisture-rich: Keeps you feeling full longer without being heavy.
Serving suggestions
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Toasted with butter and honey for breakfast
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Used for sandwiches with turkey or grilled veggies
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Dipped in soup or chili for hearty comfort
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Spread with cream cheese and jam for a quick snack
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Makes excellent grilled cheese or panini
Cooking tips
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Use freshly cooked rice that’s soft and not too dry.
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Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the dough for a softer crust.
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Check doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow.
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Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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You can freeze the loaf whole or sliced; just wrap tightly in plastic and foil.
Variations to try
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Herb-infused: Add 1 teaspoon of rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
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Cheese bread: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or parmesan.
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Garlic rice bread: Add 2 cloves of minced roasted garlic for savory flair.
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Whole grain: Replace 1 cup of flour with whole wheat for extra fiber.
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Sweet version: Add 1/4 cup raisins and 1/2 tsp cinnamon for breakfast bread.
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Seed topping: Sprinkle sesame or flax seeds over the loaf before baking.
A conclusion
Rice Yeast Bread is the perfect marriage of two pantry staples—rice and flour—coming together in a beautifully soft, chewy, and aromatic loaf. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven, toasted with toppings, or layered into sandwiches, it never disappoints. It’s simple enough for everyday baking yet impressive enough to share at a family meal. If you haven’t tried adding rice to your bread before, this recipe is a wonderful place to start. It’s a small twist that brings big rewards—flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
10 comprehensive FAQ section
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice is chewier and denser. Make sure it’s well-cooked and soft. You may need slightly more water in the dough.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes. Use 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and skip the activation step. Add it directly with the flour.
3. Can this bread be made gluten-free?
No, this version contains wheat flour. To make it gluten-free, you’d need a mix of gluten-free flour and binding agents like xanthan gum.
4. Can I make it without milk?
Yes. Replace milk with water or use a plant-based milk like oat or almond for a dairy-free option.
5. How long does this bread stay fresh?
It keeps well for 3–4 days at room temperature in a sealed container or bread box.
6. Can I knead the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely. Use a dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes.
7. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Add more flour one tablespoon at a time during kneading until it’s workable but still soft.
8. Can I make this in a bread machine?
Yes, add all ingredients to your bread maker following the machine’s order of operations. Use the basic bread setting.
9. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double it to make two loaves. Be sure to use two pans or one large pullman loaf pan.
10. Why did my bread turn out dense?
Possible causes include inactive yeast, over-kneading, or not letting the dough rise enough. Always check your yeast and give the dough time to double in size.