There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking in your kitchen. This simple homemade bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden, crispy crust. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the warmth of freshly baked bread at home—whether you’re having it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can make your own delicious bread from scratch!
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go!
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a small well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix everything together with a spoon until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. You may need to add a little more flour if it gets too sticky, but be careful not to add too much.
- Let it rise: Grease the bowl with a little oil and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf by folding the sides in and rolling it up tightly. Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen, place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the bread cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more rustic, hearty loaf.
- For added flavor, you can mix in herbs (like rosemary or thyme) or even grated cheese during the kneading process.
This homemade bread is a great way to bring comfort and joy to your kitchen, and it’s perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite soup!
