Here’s a super simple and delicious Homemade Bread recipe that’s perfect for beginners. With just a few ingredients, you can make soft, fluffy bread that will fill your home with the best aroma!
Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a slight sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast might be old or the water too hot or cold, so try again with fresh yeast and the right water temperature.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add it to the flour along with the olive oil (or butter) and honey if using.
- Stir the mixture until it comes together into a dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment to knead for about 5-7 minutes.
4. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. (The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not too wet.)
5. Shape the Dough:
- Punch the dough down to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf. To do this, fold the edges of the dough toward the center, then roll it up into a log shape. Tuck the ends underneath the loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the pan with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until the dough has risen to the top of the pan.
7. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
8. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps set the texture.
Enjoy your freshly baked homemade bread with butter, jam, or as a sandwich base. It’s perfect for toast in the morning or to accompany soups and stews!