This homemade bread recipe uses active dry yeast to create a soft and fluffy loaf. It’s a simple process that yields delicious results, perfect for sandwiches or toasting.
With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake your own bread at home. This recipe is great for beginners and can be customized with herbs or seeds for added flavor.
The Art of Baking Homemade Bread
Baking bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. The process begins with simple ingredients, yet the outcome is a beautifully baked loaf that can elevate any meal.
Homemade bread offers a unique satisfaction that store-bought varieties simply cannot match. The golden crust and soft, fluffy interior create a perfect canvas for spreads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter.
Ingredients for Success
To create this delicious loaf, you will need four cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of active dry yeast, and a few other pantry staples.
The combination of these ingredients is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor. The yeast plays a pivotal role, activating and helping the dough rise to create that airy crumb.
Step-by-Step Process
Start by activating the yeast, which is crucial for a successful rise. Combine warm water with sugar and yeast, allowing it to froth. This step ensures that your bread will rise beautifully.
Next, mix the flour and salt in a large bowl before adding the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. This kneading process develops the gluten, giving the bread its structure.
The Rising Phase
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1-2 hours.
This first rise is vital for creating a light and airy loaf. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and shape it into a loaf.
Shaping and Baking
After shaping, let the loaf rise again for about 30-45 minutes. This second rise is essential for achieving that perfect puffiness.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare to bake. The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling process helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy your freshly baked bread warm or toasted, with butter or your favorite spread. The satisfaction of homemade bread is unmatched, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Easy Homemade Bread Recipe
This bread features a golden crust and a tender crumb, achieved by activating the yeast and allowing the dough to rise. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (if using). Stir 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 shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g