13 breads that cost pennies to make but taste like grandma’s

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Bread baking is a simple pleasure that brings to mind the cozy kitchens of our grandmothers. Here, we’re going to look at 13 bread recipes that are kind to your wallet but rich in taste. You probably have most of the ingredients at home already, ready to be turned into warm, delicious bread.

As we go through these recipes, you’ll see that they’re not just easy on your budget; they offer a variety of tastes and textures too. Some have a crunchy crust, while others are soft like pillows. These recipes are about making great bread without spending a lot of money. So let’s get started on this journey of making tasty, homemade bread just like grandma used to make.

Chocolate zucchini bread slices stacked on top of each other.
Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.
Empanadas on a plate.
Argentinian Empanadas. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Argentinian Empanadas

Argentinian Empanadas are a savory delight, taking about an hour to bring the flavors of Argentina to your kitchen. Filled with a mixture of vegetables and spices, these empanadas have a flaky crust that encases a hearty and aromatic filling. They’re a testament to the traditional cuisine, offering a taste that’s both robust and comforting. Enjoy them as a snack or a meal for a fraction of what you’d pay dining out.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas

Small-Batch Cornbread

Small-Batch Cornbread delivers comfort with its golden crust and tender crumb in just 25 minutes. Main ingredients like cornmeal and buttermilk create a classic taste that’s reminiscent of southern hospitality. Its simplicity ensures a budget-friendly creation without compromising on that homemade, buttery flavor. This bread pairs perfectly with chili or can be enjoyed on its own.
Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Cornbread

Grandma’s Cornbread

Grandma’s Cornbread is a timeless recipe that takes about 30 minutes to bake. It uses staple ingredients like cornmeal and buttermilk, yielding a bread with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The taste is a nostalgic blend of sweet and savory, making it a versatile side dish. It’s a frugal way to bring a piece of family heritage to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread

Rosemary sourdough bread on cutting board.
Rosemary Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Rosemary Sourdough Bread infuses the tangy flavor of sourdough with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary. This artisanal bread requires a longer process but results in a complex taste and a chewy texture that’s well worth the effort. With basic ingredients like flour and starter, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy gourmet bread. It’s ideal for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to soup.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Chocolate Paleo Banana Bread

Chocolate Paleo Banana Bread is a moist, rich treat that takes about an hour to make. It combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the indulgence of chocolate, all while adhering to paleo dietary preferences. Almond flour and cocoa powder are key ingredients, creating a bread that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a guilt-free dessert that echoes the warmth of traditional banana bread.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Paleo Banana Bread

Apple Cider Oatmeal Bread

Apple Cider Oatmeal Bread is a hearty loaf that embodies the essence of fall with a baking time of about 45 minutes. Main ingredients include apple cider and rolled oats, which contribute to its moist texture and subtly sweet flavor. This bread has a comforting spice blend that makes it taste like a cozy autumn afternoon. It’s an economical way to enjoy seasonal flavors any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Oatmeal Bread

Sesame buns with sesame seeds on a wooden cutting board.
Black Sesame Sourdough Buns. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Black Sesame Sourdough Buns

Black sesame sourdough buns are unique, taking about 20 hours including fermentation. They blend the nutty taste of black sesame seeds with the classic sourdough tang. These buns are made with ingredients like sesame paste and whole wheat flour, resulting in a visually striking and flavor-packed bread. They’re perfect for those looking to elevate their bread experience on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Sourdough Buns

Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate Zucchini Bread offers a clever way to sneak in veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth, taking about an hour to bake. The main ingredients, zucchini and cocoa powder, create a moist texture and deep chocolate flavor. This bread is a healthier alternative to traditional dessert loaves, without skimping on taste. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a decadent treat.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Russian Piroshki

Russian Piroshki are a comforting pocket of joy that takes about 2 hours to complete. These handheld pies feature a soft, yeasted dough filled with a savory blend of ingredients like cabbage, eggs, and onions. The taste is a harmonious balance of rich dough and flavorful filling, reminiscent of Eastern European home cooking. They’re a frugal choice for a filling and portable meal.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki

Brioche rolls on a baking sheet on top of a towel.
Brioche Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brioche Rolls

Brioche Rolls are a luxurious yet economical bread option, requiring about 3 hours to prepare. These rolls are rich with ingredients like eggs and butter, resulting in a soft, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet taste. They’re perfect for turning any meal into a special occasion. Despite their opulent flavor, these rolls are surprisingly inexpensive to make.
Get the Recipe: Brioche Rolls

English Muffin Bread

English Muffin Bread brings the nooks and crannies of English muffins to a convenient loaf form in just about 2 hours. This bread uses common ingredients such as flour and yeast, creating a chewy texture and a mild flavor. It’s ideal for toasting and slathering with butter or jam. Enjoy the comforting taste of breakfast all day long without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: English Muffin Bread

Homemade Balkan bourekas with eggplant, tomatoes, Jarlsberg and feta cheese

Homemade Balkan bourekas with eggplant, tomatoes, Jarlsberg, and feta cheese are a Mediterranean escape that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to make. The filling is a rich blend of roasted vegetables and tangy cheese, encased in flaky pastry dough. These bourekas have a savory, complex flavor profile that’s surprisingly affordable to recreate. They’re perfect for a snack or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Balkan bourekas with eggplant, tomatoes, Jarlsberg and feta cheese

A sliced loaf of pean nutmeg bread.
Nutmeg and Pecan Braided Bread. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Nutmeg and Pecan Braided Bread

Nutmeg and Pecan Braided Bread is a sweet, nutty bread that requires about 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish. Ingredients like ground nutmeg and pecans infuse the bread with warm, spiced flavors. Its braided shape not only looks impressive but also enhances the bread’s texture. This recipe offers a homemade twist on classic holiday flavors without the hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Nutmeg and Pecan Braided Bread

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