Easy Homemade Bread

 

Making easy homemade bread requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter!

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 tbsp sugar or honey
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. (If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix it directly with the flour.)

Step 2: Make the Dough

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (or butter). Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead for 5-6 minutes on low speed with a dough hook.)

Step 4: First Rise

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape & Second Rise

6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
7. Place the shaped dough into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a softer crust, brush the top with melted butter after baking.
• For whole wheat bread, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
• For extra flavor, mix in garlic, herbs, or shredded cheese.

Would you like a no-knead or gluten-free version?