This homemade bread recipe uses active dry yeast to create a soft, fluffy loaf that is perfect for sandwiches or to enjoy with butter. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake fresh bread right in your own kitchen.
The process involves mixing, kneading, and allowing the dough to rise, resulting in a deliciously aromatic bread that fills your home with warmth.
Creating the Perfect Loaf
Baking homemade bread is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. The process begins with simple ingredients that come together to create a loaf with a golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior.
Using active dry yeast is key in achieving that perfect rise. The yeast ferments, allowing the dough to expand and develop flavor. This method not only results in a delicious loaf but also provides a sense of accomplishment as you watch your creation transform.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, gather the essential ingredients: all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, salt, sugar, warm water, and optionally, olive oil. Each component plays a vital role in the final product.
The flour provides structure, while the yeast is responsible for the rise. Salt enhances flavor, and sugar helps activate the yeast. Warm water is crucial for bringing the ingredients together and ensuring the yeast is activated properly.
The Dough-Making Process
Begin by activating the yeast. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, allowing it to froth for a few minutes. This step is essential for ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
Next, mix the flour and salt in a large bowl, then incorporate the yeast mixture. Stir until you form a shaggy dough, then turn it out onto a floured surface for kneading. Kneading is a critical step that develops gluten, resulting in a smooth and elastic dough.
Rising to the Occasion
Once kneaded, 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 typically takes about 1-2 hours.
After the first rise, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover it again for a second rise. This final rise is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture.
Baking Your Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rises. Once the loaf has risen above the edge of the pan, it’s time to bake. The bread should bake for 30-35 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
After baking, allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack. This cooling period is important as it helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Enjoying Your Homemade Bread
Once cooled, slice into your freshly baked loaf and enjoy the soft, fluffy interior. Spread a generous amount of butter on a warm slice for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Homemade bread is perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed on its own. The satisfaction of baking your own loaf adds a special touch to any meal, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Easy Active Dry Yeast Bread Recipe
This bread features a golden crust and a soft interior, achieved through the fermentation of active dry yeast. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and yields one 1.5-pound 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/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry 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 shaggy 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 9×5-inch 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 edge of the pan.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 23g