This easy homemade bread recipe is perfect for those who prefer a dairy-free option. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal kneading, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Creating the Perfect No-Milk Bread
Homemade bread is a delightful addition to any meal, and making it without milk opens up possibilities for those with dietary restrictions. The simplicity of this recipe allows anyone to enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread in their home.
Using just a handful of ingredients, this bread achieves a beautiful golden crust and a soft, airy interior. The combination of flour, water, yeast, and salt creates a wholesome loaf that can be enjoyed in various ways, whether fresh out of the oven or toasted for breakfast.
Essential Ingredients for Success
To embark on your bread-making journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
These basic components come together to form a dough that is easy to work with and yields a loaf that is both satisfying and delicious.
The Bread-Making Process
The process begins with activating the yeast. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl and let it sit until frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to help your bread rise.
Next, mix the flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil if you choose to include it. Stir until a dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface for kneading. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rising to the Occasion
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about an hour or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is essential for developing flavor and texture.
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will give your bread that perfect fluffy texture.
Baking and Enjoying Your Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising for the second time. Once ready, bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes or until it turns a beautiful golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
After baking, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling process is important to maintain the bread’s texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once cooled, slice the bread to reveal its airy texture and crusty exterior. Serve it warm with a small bowl of olive oil for dipping, or enjoy it with your favorite spreads. This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or simply on its own.
With its delightful aroma and inviting appearance, this homemade no-milk bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making it and the satisfaction of sharing it with family and friends.
No-Milk Homemade Bread Recipe
This bread features a blend of flour, water, yeast, and salt, resulting in a wholesome loaf that can be enjoyed fresh or toasted. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 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 lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour 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 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread 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 a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Calories: 120kcal per slice
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g