Classic Homemade Bread

Here’s a Classic Homemade Bread recipe — simple, reliable, and perfect for everyday baking. This is a soft, slightly chewy white bread with a golden crust. Great for toast, sandwiches, or just slathering with butter while warm.

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🍞 Classic Homemade Bread

Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Bake Time: 30–35 minutes

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📝 Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110–115°F / 43–46°C)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl or measuring cup, mix warm water and sugar.

2. Sprinkle yeast over the top and stir gently.

3. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be dead.)

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2. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.

2. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter.

3. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.

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3. Knead

• Turn dough out onto a floured surface.

• Knead for 8–10 minutes (or 6–7 minutes in a stand mixer with dough hook), until smooth and elastic.

• Add small amounts of flour if dough is too sticky.

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4. First Rise

1. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat.

2. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

3. Let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

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5. Shape and Second Rise

1. Punch down the dough.

2. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

3. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until dough crests over the pan edge.

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6. Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake loaf for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.

3. Optional: Brush top with melted butter right after baking for a softer crust.

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7. Cool

• Let bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

• Cool completely before slicing (if you can wait!).

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🍯 Variations & Add-Ins

• Add 1 tbsp honey for a slightly sweeter flavor.

• Mix in herbs, shredded cheese, or roasted garlic for a savory twist.

• Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

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🧊 Storage

• Store at room temp in a bread bag or airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freeze sliced or whole for up to 3 months.