Here’s a simple, classic homemade bread recipe that’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for beginners. 🍞✨
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir lightly and let sit 5–10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead
- Turn dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
4. First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean towel.
- Let it rise 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
5. Shape & Second Rise
- Punch down the dough.
- Shape it into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes, until it puffs up.
6. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow.
7. Cool
- Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a crusty loaf: Bake on a preheated baking stone or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
- Add-ins: Herbs, garlic, olives, or cheese can make it flavorful.
- Whole wheat version: Replace 1–2 cups of flour with whole wheat flour; may need slightly more water.
💡 Pro Tip:
Homemade bread is best fresh, but it freezes well. Slice and freeze for easy toast anytime.
If you want, I can give a “5-Minute No-Knead Bread” version that requires almost no hands-on work but still tastes amazing.
Do you want me to do that?
