Go Back
A freshly baked loaf of homemade potato bread cooling on a wire rack, with a beautiful golden crust.

Potato Bread Recipe (The Softest, Fluffiest Loaf)

This potato bread recipe is your guide to baking the softest, most fluffy loaf of homemade bread. Using mashed potatoes ensures a moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for days. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, and more.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cooked and mashed potato Russet potatoes, cooled to lukewarm
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast 1 standard packet
  • 1/2 cup warm water Preferably reserved potato water, 105-115°F
  • 1/2 cup whole milk Warmed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter Melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg Lightly beaten
  • 4 - 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Plus more for dusting

Equipment

  • 1 9x5 inch loaf pan
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Wire cooling rack

Instructions
 

  1. If not using leftovers, boil, drain (reserving water), and mash potato until smooth. Let cool. In a small bowl, combine the warm reserved potato water, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potato, melted butter, milk, remaining sugar, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture. Gradually add 4 cups of flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled.
  4. Deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes, until it's about 1 inch above the pan rim.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature is 190-200°F. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

For an extra golden crust, brush the loaf with a beaten egg before baking.
Ensure your mashed potatoes are unseasoned if using leftovers (no salt, pepper, or butter).
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure the internal structure sets properly.
QR Code linking back to recipe