This homemade bread recipe delivers a perfectly crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for any meal of the day. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or as a side to dinner, this bread is versatile and easy to make. Freshly baked bread is always a hit, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes of resting)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients
- Dry Yeast: 10 grams (1 packet)
- Warm Water: 200 ml (1 glass)
- Flour: 720 grams (6 cups) + 120 grams (1 cup) for initial mixing
- Salt: 10 grams (1 teaspoon)
- Egg Yolk: 1
- Milk: 1 tablespoon
Directions
- Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water and stir until dissolved.
- Mix in 120 grams of flour until smooth. Gather the dough, cover, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Add 400 ml of warm water, mix well, then gradually add 720 grams of flour and salt. Knead for 3-4 minutes until a soft, slightly non-sticky dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it ferment until it doubles in size. Remove air, gather, and divide into two parts. Roll each into a ball and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Flour the surface lightly, expand the dough with your fingers, then roll it inward. Repeat with the second dough.
- Arrange the dough on a baking tray, cover, and leave for 20 minutes. Brush with a mixture of egg yolk and milk, then bake at 200°C (392°F) until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.
- Great alongside soups, salads, or as a sandwich base.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep it soft and light.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Nutritional Benefits
- Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Homemade bread can be lower in preservatives compared to store-bought options.
Dietary Information
- This bread recipe contains gluten due to the flour.
- Suitable for vegetarians.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to follow with simple ingredients.
- Produces bakery-quality bread at home.
- Versatile for various meals and occasions.
- The bread is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Conclusion
This homemade bread is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a delightful texture and flavor. Its simplicity and delicious outcome make it a go-to recipe for bread lovers. Try it out, and you’ll find yourself making it regularly. Enjoy the fresh-baked goodness with your favorite dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
- Yes, instant yeast can be used directly without dissolving in water.
- What if my dough doesn’t rise?
- Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm enough. If it’s still not rising, it might be due to a cold environment.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, but the texture might be denser. You may need to adjust the water amount.
- How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
- The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?
- Absolutely! Add them during the kneading process for extra flavor.
- How do I prevent the bread from being too dry?
- Avoid overbaking and ensure your dough has enough moisture.
- Can I make this recipe with a bread machine?
- Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for mixing and baking.
- What’s the best way to thaw frozen bread?
- Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
- Can I use milk instead of water?
- You can use milk, but it will result in a slightly denser bread.
- How long should I let the dough rise?
- The dough should double in size, which usually takes about 1-2 hours depending on the temperature.