This homemade bread recipe yields a soft, crusty loaf that is perfect for sandwiches or enjoying with butter. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create fresh bread right in your kitchen.
The process is straightforward and requires minimal equipment. It’s a great way to learn the basics of bread-making and can be customized with herbs, seeds, or other flavorings.
The Allure of Homemade Bread
There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen.
This experience can transform any ordinary day into a moment of warmth and comfort.
The golden-brown crust and soft, fluffy interior invite you to slice into the loaf and enjoy its delightful texture.
Ingredients That Matter
Creating a perfect loaf of bread starts with quality ingredients.
The foundation includes all-purpose flour, warm water, yeast, salt, and a touch of sugar.
These simple components work together to create a chewy texture and a crust that is both inviting and satisfying.
Optional ingredients like olive oil can enhance flavor and moisture, while additional herbs or seeds can add a personal touch to the bread.
The Bread-Making Process
Making bread at home is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
It begins with activating the yeast, which is crucial for achieving that airy texture.
Once the yeast is frothy, it’s mixed with flour and salt to form a shaggy dough.
Kneading the dough is an essential step that develops gluten, resulting in a smooth and elastic texture.
After kneading, the dough is allowed to rise, doubling in size and building flavor.
Shaping and Baking
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into a loaf.
This involves gently punching down the dough and forming it into a loaf shape before placing it in a greased pan.
A second rise allows the loaf to puff up, preparing it for baking.
Preheating the oven is vital to ensure the bread bakes evenly.
As the loaf bakes, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma, signaling that something wonderful is happening.
The Perfect Slice
After baking, the bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Allowing it to cool on a wire rack is essential for achieving the perfect slice.
Once cooled, the loaf can be sliced, revealing its airy texture and inviting crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade bread is incredibly versatile.
It can be enjoyed simply with butter, making each slice a delightful treat.
Pairing it with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches adds to its charm.
Whether served warm or toasted, this bread is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.
Creating a loaf of homemade bread is not just about the end product; it’s about the experience and the joy it brings to your kitchen.
Easy Homemade Bread Recipe
This bread is made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, resulting in a deliciously chewy texture and golden crust. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish, including rising time, and makes one loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- Additional flour for dusting
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 shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- 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 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 pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g