This classic homemade bread recipe yields a soft and crusty loaf that is perfect for sandwiches or to enjoy with butter. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and water, it’s a straightforward process that anyone can master.
The recipe requires basic baking techniques and can be customized with herbs, seeds, or other flavors to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Loaf
Homemade bread is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a warm and comforting experience. The process of making bread from scratch can be incredibly rewarding, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious loaf.
Start with quality ingredients: all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water. These basics come together to create a loaf that is both crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of olive oil is optional but can enhance the flavor and texture.
The Art of Kneading
Kneading is a crucial step in bread-making. This process develops gluten, giving the bread its structure and chewiness. After mixing your ingredients, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes.
As you knead, you’ll notice the dough becoming smoother and more elastic. This tactile experience is not only satisfying but also essential for achieving that perfect loaf.
Rising to the Occasion
Once kneaded, the dough needs to rise. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm area. This first rise typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing the dough to double in size.
The rising process is where the yeast works its magic, creating air pockets that contribute to the bread’s fluffy texture. Patience is key here, as this step cannot be rushed.
Shaping and Second Rise
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it. Gently punch down the dough to release the air, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Cover the loaf again and allow it to rise for a second time, about 30-45 minutes. This final rise is crucial for achieving a light and airy loaf.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising. Once the loaf has risen adequately, it’s ready for the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is simply irresistible, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes the wait worthwhile.
Cooling and Enjoying
After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Serve your freshly baked bread with a dish of butter for spreading. The combination of warm bread and creamy butter is a classic that never fails to please.
Easy Oven-Baked Bread Recipe
This homemade bread features a golden crust with a soft interior. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish, including rising time, and makes one large loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it rises above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Calories: 120kcal per slice
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 24g