Classic Homemade Bread Recipe

This classic homemade bread is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a soft and fluffy loaf with a golden, crispy crust. Enjoy it warm from the oven or at room temperature, ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply a slice with butter.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Rest Time: 2-3 hours
  • Total Time: 3-4 hours

Ingredients:

  • Warm water: 1 ½ cups (370 ml)
  • Dry yeast: 2 tablespoons (10 g)
  • Flour: 4 cups (500 g)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is dissolved and foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough:
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

4. First Rise:
Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.

6. Second Rise:
Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.

7. Bake the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread warm or at room temperature!

Tips:

  • For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter after baking.
  • Add seeds or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.

Reasons to Love This Recipe:

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Perfect for beginners.
  • Soft, fluffy texture with a crispy crust.
  • Versatile for different types of bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
    Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
  2. How do I know if my yeast is still active?
    Mix it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. If it becomes foamy within 5-10 minutes, it’s active.
  3. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
    Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend. Gluten-free dough may need different handling and rising times.
  4. How can I make the crust softer?
    Brush the top of the bread with melted butter after baking or cover with a damp cloth immediately after baking.
  5. Can I add extra ingredients like seeds, nuts, or herbs?
    Absolutely! Add seeds, nuts, or herbs during mixing for added flavor and texture.
  6. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
    Add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  7. How should I store the bread to keep it fresh?
    Store at room temperature in a bread box or plastic bag for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
  8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, refrigerate after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking.
  9. Why did my bread turn out dense?
    Dense bread may result from insufficient kneading, rising, or using old yeast. Make sure to knead the dough until smooth and allow enough rising time.
  10. Can I bake this bread in a bread machine?
    Yes, you can use a bread machine for this recipe, following the machine’s instructions for ingredient order and bake time.