Basic Knead Bread Recipe (1 Loaf)
Ingredients:
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3 ½ to 4 cups (420–480g) all-purpose or bread flour
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1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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1 ¼ cups (295 ml) warm water (110°F or 45°C)
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine:
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Warm water
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Sugar
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Yeast
Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes foamy (this means the yeast is active).
2. Make the Dough
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Add oil and salt to the yeast mixture.
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Stir in 3 cups of flour, 1 cup at a time.
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Add more flour gradually (¼ cup at a time) until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
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Knead for 8–10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Test: Press your finger into the dough; it should slowly bounce back.
4. First Rise
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Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
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Let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
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Punch down the dough to release air.
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Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
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Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
7. Bake
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool
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Let cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Would you like a whole wheat version or one with no kneading?