Easy Homemade Bread: A Simple Recipe for Fresh, Warm Loaves
Nothing beats the smell of fresh-baked bread straight from the oven. If you’ve always wanted to try baking bread but thought it was too complicated, this Easy Homemade Bread recipe is just for you. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make your own soft, fluffy bread right in your own kitchen. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a little butter.
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- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 egg (optional, for brushing on top)
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. If the mixture doesn't foam, it may mean your yeast is expired, and you should try again with fresh yeast.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir everything together until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then, shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a tight cylinder and pinching the edges together to seal.
Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you want a shiny golden top, brush the loaf with a beaten egg. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Slice: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the texture to set. Once cool enough to handle, slice and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Easy Homemade Bread:
Use the Right Temperature for Water:
The water should be warm but not hot. Too hot and it will kill the yeast; too cold and the yeast won’t activate. Aim for a temperature of about 110°F (43°C).
Don’t Rush the Rising Time:
The rise is crucial for getting fluffy bread. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove to help it rise.
Add Flavor Variations:
Feel free to add herbs, garlic, or seeds like sesame or sunflower to the dough for extra flavor. You can also try adding a bit of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist.
Use Olive Oil for a Richer Flavor:
Olive oil adds a subtle richness to the dough and creates a tender crumb. You can substitute other oils if needed, but olive oil is a classic choice for homemade bread.
Perfecting the Crust:
If you prefer a softer crust, cover the loaf with a kitchen towel as it cools. For a crispier crust, leave it uncovered during the cooling process.
Storing Homemade Bread:
To keep your bread fresh, store it in a breadbox or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Homemade bread is best enjoyed within a few days but can be frozen for up to 3 months.