As the last remnants of Thanksgiving linger in the fridge, I found myself pondering a delicious way to transform those cherished leftovers into something extraordinary. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea for Black Friday Bread—a delightfully moist loaf that brings together the comforting flavors of stuffing and mashed potatoes. With each slice, the herby aroma fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist.
Not only does this scrumptious creation help reduce waste, but it also elevates the classic turkey sandwich to a whole new level. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want to enjoy a fabulously soft loaf that echoes the warmth of family gatherings? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this Black Friday Bread recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing way to repurpose your holiday favorites. So, let’s dive in and make something magical from those delightful leftovers!
Why is Black Friday Bread a Must-Try?
Transformative: This recipe takes your Thanksgiving leftovers to a whole new level, turning them into a flavorful loaf that everyone will love.
Simple Steps: With minimal effort, you can create a delicious bread that even novice cooks can master.
Versatile Ingredients: Personalize it with different substitutes based on what’s in your fridge, making it a flexible option for all tastes.
Irresistible Aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with savory notes that evoke the warmth of family gatherings.
Perfect for Sandwiches: Enjoy it as the ultimate base for turkey sandwiches or as a cozy side for soups, ensuring no goodies go to waste!
Crowd-Pleaser: This loaf is always a hit at gatherings, appealing to both your family and friends alike.
Black Friday Bread Ingredients
• Dive into scrumptious leftovers with this easy Black Friday Bread!
For the Dough
- King Arthur Golden Wheat Flour – Provides structure and flavor; substitute with all-purpose flour for a milder taste.
- King Arthur Unbleached Bread Flour – Gives the bread a chewy texture; replace with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Soft Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.
- Table Salt – Enhances overall flavor; kosher salt can be used in adjusted amounts.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances flavors beautifully; honey or maple syrup can provide a different sweetness profile.
- Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise; active dry yeast works if proofed beforehand.
- Lukewarm Milk – Adds moisture and flavor; opt for unsweetened plant milk for a dairy-free version.
For the Flavor
- Prepared Stuffing – Infuses the bread with delicious herbs; choose meat-free options for safety.
- Mashed Potatoes – Adds moisture and utilizes leftovers; sweet potatoes can offer a unique flavor twist.
Let your culinary creativity shine as you whip up this delightful bread using your Thanksgiving leftovers!
How to Make Black Friday Bread
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine all the ingredients until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. This should take about 5-7 minutes of mixing.
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Let Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
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Shape Dough: Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a log about 11″-12″ long. Place it on a prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space around it for rising.
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Second Rise: Cover the dough again with the towel and let it rise for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks noticeably puffy!
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Preheat Oven: About 10-15 minutes before the second rise is complete, preheat your oven to 350°F.
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Bake Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
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Cool and Store: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before wrapping it airtight for storage. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 3-4 days at room temperature.
Optional: Enjoy with a spread of butter or use it as the perfect base for turkey sandwiches!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Black Friday Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to rise as you go about your busy day. Simply prepare the dough, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When it’s time to bake, remove the dough from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, then shape it and allow it to rise for another 1.5 to 2 hours. To ensure the bread stays just as delicious, wrap it airtight after cooling; it can be stored for 3-4 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 3 months. Enjoy the benefits of having warm, homemade bread on hand with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Black Friday Bread
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Flour Adjustments: Depending on the moisture from your leftover stuffing and potatoes, adjust the flour or liquid to achieve the right dough consistency.
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Taste the Stuffing: Always choose stuffing without meat or broth to keep your Black Friday Bread safe and delicious.
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Proofing Yeast: If using active dry yeast, remember to proof it first in lukewarm water before adding it to the mixture for the best rise.
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Check Temperature: Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°F; this ensures that your bread is fully baked and safe to eat.
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Sealing for Freshness: After cooling, wrap your bread tightly to maintain its moisture, allowing it to last up to 3-4 days at room temperature.
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Freezing Option: If you have extra bread, freeze it to enjoy later—just thaw and reheat for a cozy treat anytime!
What to Serve with Black Friday Bread?
This delightful loaf pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that elevate your meal to new heights.
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Savory Turkey Sandwiches: Layer tender turkey and cranberry sauce for a classic pairing that emphasizes the leftover theme of the bread.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth, buttery texture complements the soft crumb of the bread, creating a comforting union of flavors.
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Homemade Gravy: Drizzle warm gravy over slices of bread for a soul-soothing experience that celebrates holiday comfort food.
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Herbed Roasted Vegetables: The freshness and crunch of roasted veggies balance the moist bread, adding a delightful contrast to your plate.
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Light Green Salad: A zesty salad with vinaigrette contrasts the richness of the bread, bringing a refreshing element to the meal.
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Warm Buttery Corn: Sweet, buttery corn enhances the flavor and rounds out a wholesome plate that beckons for family gatherings around the table.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tart and sweet sauce is a genius way to bring brightness and lightness to the bread’s earthy flavors.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the bread and enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: After your savory meal, indulge in nostalgia with these sweet bites; a lovely way to end the day surrounded by loved ones.
Black Friday Bread Variations
Embrace your creativity and customize your Black Friday Bread to suit your taste buds and pantry!
- Garlic Bread Stuffing: Replace prepared stuffing with garlic bread for a delightful garlicky flavor boost that pairs beautifully with turkey.
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to enhance the loaf’s savory notes, creating an aromatic experience with every bite.
- Whole Wheat Twist: Swap out the standard bread flour for whole wheat flour, giving your loaf a heartier texture and nutty flavor.
- Sweet Potato Wonders: Instead of traditional mashed potatoes, use sweet potatoes for a sweet twist that adds a hint of natural sweetness to the bread.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to give the bread a zesty heat, perfect for those who love a spicy touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to introduce a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft bread.
- Cheesy Surprise: Stir in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to create a gooey, flavorful surprise that’s irresistible with turkey sandwiches.
- Smoky Flavor: For a twist on tradition, add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to push the flavor profile into a savory, smoky realm.
Transform your leftovers with these fun variations, and let your kitchen be filled with the beautiful aromas of home!
How to Store and Freeze Black Friday Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Black Friday Bread wrapped airtight at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain its softness.
Fridge: For slightly extended storage, you can refrigerate the bread, but be aware that it may dry out faster. Aim to consume within a week.
Freezer: Freeze slices of Black Friday Bread in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or toast directly from frozen for a warm treat.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover bread, reheat slices in the toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, keeping them moist and delicious!
Black Friday Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right stuffing for my Black Friday Bread?
Absolutely! When selecting stuffing, aim for options that are meat-free or contain no meat broth to ensure food safety. Homemade stuffing is a fantastic choice as you can control the ingredients, but if you’re using store-bought, check the label to avoid any unwanted additions.
How should I store my Black Friday Bread?
I recommend wrapping your cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. At room temperature, it will last for about 3 to 4 days. However, if you find yourself with more bread than you can eat, you can refrigerate it for slightly longer storage—but be aware that it may dry out faster.
Can I freeze Black Friday Bread for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the bread and place the slices in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a toaster or oven for a warm, fresh taste.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast expiration date, as old yeast may not activate. Also, ensure that the environment is warm enough—dough rises best in temperatures around 75°F to 80°F. If your kitchen is chilly, try placing the dough in a warmer spot, like near the oven while it preheats.
Can I use alternative flours in this recipe?
Definitely! While I love using King Arthur flours, feel free to experiment with other types like whole wheat or Italian bread flour for different textures and flavors. Just keep in mind that different flours may absorb moisture differently, so you might need to adjust the liquid in your dough when using alternatives.
Is this recipe suitable for my pets or anyone with allergies?
This recipe contains common allergens like wheat and dairy, so it’s important to keep it away from pets and those with food allergies. Always use caution with any ingredients, and if you’re unsure, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before sharing homemade goodies.
Transform Leftovers into Irresistible Black Friday Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine all the ingredients until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. This should take about 5-7 minutes of mixing.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
- Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a log about 11-12 inches long. Place it on a prepared baking sheet, ensuring space around it for rising.
- Cover the dough again with the towel and let it rise for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours. You'll know it's ready when it looks noticeably puffy!
- About 10-15 minutes before the second rise is complete, preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before wrapping it airtight for storage. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 3-4 days at room temperature.
- Optional: Enjoy with a spread of butter or use it as the perfect base for turkey sandwiches!