Here’s a super Easy Homemade Bread recipe that requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for beginners. You’ll get a soft, fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathered with butter.
Easy Homemade Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, so try again with a fresh packet of yeast.
- Mix the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the bread dense.
- First rise:
- Lightly grease a clean bowl with a little oil. Place the dough in the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding the edges inward and rolling it up.
- Second rise:
- Grease a loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside. Cover the pan with the towel again and let it rise for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
- Bake the bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen for the second time, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool the bread:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
- Flavor options: You can add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough before the first rise for added flavor.
- Storage: Store your bread in a bread box or plastic bag to keep it fresh for a few days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months.
- Crust preference: If you like a softer crust, you can brush the top of the loaf with a bit of butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
This easy homemade bread is delicious on its own, but also makes a great base for sandwiches, toast, or even garlic bread. Enjoy!