This homemade bread is soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden brown. With simple ingredients like wheat flour, yeast, and vegetable oil, you can create a delicious loaf or rolls that are perfect for any meal. The dough rises twice to ensure a soft, airy texture, and the milk and butter brushed on top give it a golden, flavorful crust. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you make fresh bread at home in no time.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 25 minutes (combined)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
- 350 g wheat flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 g dry yeast
- 210 ml boiled but not hot water
- 30 g vegetable oil
- Additional flour for dusting
- Milk for brushing
- Butter for brushing
Directions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Sift 350 g of wheat flour into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 5 g of dry yeast. Mix well to combine.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
- Gradually pour in 210 ml of boiled but not hot water. Stir the mixture until the ingredients start to come together.
- Add 30 g of vegetable oil and continue mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
- Brush the dough lightly with vegetable oil and place it back in the mixing bowl.
- Cover the bowl with cling film and place it in a warm place for 15 minutes to allow the dough to rise.
5. Shape the Dough
- After the dough has rested, transfer it to a floured surface again.
- Gently press the dough to remove any air bubbles and shape it into your desired form (loaf, rolls, etc.).
- Use a knife to cut the dough into your preferred shape or portion sizes.
6. Second Rise
- Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the dough loosely with a cloth and let it rise for another 10 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. Prepare for Baking
- Brush the risen dough with milk and melted butter to give it a golden, shiny crust.
9. Bake
- Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
- Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is boiled and then slightly cooled (about 40°C or 100°F) to help activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading is important for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its soft texture.
- Let the Dough Rise Properly: Give the dough enough time to rise in a warm place to help it double in size for the best texture.
- Check for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the bread after baking. If it sounds hollow, it’s ready. If it’s dull, bake for a few more minutes.
Variations to Try
- Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half of the wheat flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more rustic loaf.
- Herb-Infused Bread: Add fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
- Sweet Bread: Add raisins, cinnamon, or even a little sugar to the dough for a sweeter variation.
- Cheese Bread: Mix in grated cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Vegan Bread: Substitute the butter for olive oil or a plant-based spread and skip the milk brush for a fully vegan bread.
Nutritional Benefits
- Wheat Flour: A great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
- Yeast: Helps with digestion and is a natural source of B vitamins.
- Vegetable Oil: Provides healthy fats that support heart health.
- Butter: Adds flavor and provides fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade bread is simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a loaf of soft, fluffy bread with a golden crust. The optional milk and butter brushing creates a delicious, shiny finish that elevates the bread’s flavor. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, providing a comforting, homemade bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, serving with soups, or enjoying on its own.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use all-purpose flour instead of wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for wheat flour, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly. -
Can I make this bread without yeast?
No, yeast is crucial for this recipe as it helps the dough rise and gives it the airy texture. Without yeast, you’ll need to use a different leavening agent like baking powder. -
How do I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. -
Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix on low speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking the bread.