This easy-to-make Homemade Bread recipe yields three small loaves with a soft, fluffy texture and a golden crust. Perfect for everyday use, this versatile bread can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings like butter, cheese, or your favorite spreads. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers delicious results every time.
Preparation Time:
- Total Preparation Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (Makes 3 Small Loaves):
- 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices Per Loaf):
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 0 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
Directions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Combine Ingredients: Add flour to a large bowl. Pour in the warm water, olive oil, yeast, and salt.
- Mix and Knead: Mix ingredients until combined, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough, then divide it into three equal parts. Shape each into a loaf and place them on a lined baking sheet. Make shallow cuts on top of each loaf.
- Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Preheat Oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake loaves for 30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve with your favorite toppings like butter, jam, or cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread with butter and jam for breakfast.
- Serve alongside soups or stews.
- Use for sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
Cooking Tips:
- Add a small pan of water to the oven for a crispy crust.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Low in Sugar: No added sugar makes this a healthier bread option.
- Good Source of Carbohydrates: Provides energy from complex carbs.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats, contributing to heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan-Friendly: This bread contains no dairy or animal products.
- Dairy-Free and Nut-Free.
Storage:
- Store at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 3 days.
- Freeze slices for longer storage and toast from frozen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- Simple and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Light and fluffy texture with a crispy golden crust.
- Perfect for sandwiches, sides, or dipping into soups.
Conclusion: This homemade bread recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy and reliable bread-making method. With its soft texture and delicious crust, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you enjoy it fresh or freeze it for later, this bread will quickly become a household favorite. Happy baking!
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can also use a mix of both flours.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, by using a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
- Do I have to use olive oil? No, you can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter.
- What if my dough doesn’t rise? Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm, not hot, to activate it properly.
- Can I add herbs or spices to the dough? Yes, adding herbs like rosemary or garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
- How do I know when the bread is fully baked? Tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
- Can I make just one large loaf instead of three small ones? Yes, but the baking time may increase slightly.
- What’s the best way to store leftover bread? Store in a paper bag at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, instant yeast works the same, and you may skip the proofing step.
- How can I get an extra crispy crust? Add a small pan of water in the oven or mist the bread with water during baking for a crispier crust.