Homemade Bread Recipe

This homemade bread recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients to create a soft and fluffy loaf. With just warm water, flour, sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast, you can bake fresh bread right at home. The dough rises beautifully, resulting in a warm, fragrant loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or just served with butter. The kneading process is quick, and the dough can be easily managed even by beginners.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 1 loaf

Cuisine

This recipe is based on traditional homemade bread-making techniques. It offers a simple, no-fuss approach to making bread at home, ideal for those new to baking or anyone craving fresh, warm bread.

Full List of Ingredients

• 300 ml (1 ½ cups) warm water
• 410 g (3 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour, plus 1 tbsp for kneading
• 1 tsp (5 g) sugar
• 1 tsp (5 g) salt
• 2 tsp (7 g) instant dry yeast

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with the sugar and instant dry yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Prepare the Dough
   Add the salt and flour to the yeast mixture. Begin mixing with a spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together. Gradually add more flour as needed until the dough is no longer sticky and forms a rough ball.

3. Knead the Dough
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add the 1 tablespoon of flour if the dough sticks to your hands or the surface, but try not to add too much extra flour.

4. First Rise
   Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough
   After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf by folding the edges inward and rolling it up into a log shape. Tuck the ends underneath to form a smooth top.

6. Second Rise
   Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen just slightly above the top of the pan.

7. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the dough has risen, bake it for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve
   Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Once cool, slice and serve with butter, jams, or any spread of your choice.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Bread has been a staple in many cultures around the world for centuries. This simple bread recipe draws on traditional techniques to create a soft and fluffy loaf without needing advanced baking skills or specialized equipment. It’s perfect for beginners and anyone craving homemade bread with minimal ingredients.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: This recipe only requires basic pantry staples, making it easy to prepare at home.
2. Customizable: You can add herbs, garlic, or other seasonings to the dough for extra flavor.
3. Homemade Freshness: There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen.
4. No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need a bread machine or mixer—just your hands and a baking pan!
5. Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to baking, this easy bread recipe will help you get started with confidence.

Health Benefits

1. Whole Grains: If you prefer, you can use whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
2. No Preservatives: Homemade bread is free from the preservatives and additives often found in store-bought versions.
3. Low in Sugar: With only a small amount of sugar, this bread is a healthier choice than many store-bought alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Side Dish: Serve this bread with soups, stews, or salads for a hearty meal.
2. For Sandwiches: Use it as a base for your favorite sandwiches or toasted with a bit of butter for breakfast.
3. With Spreads: Top it with jam, honey, or cream cheese for a delightful snack.

Cooking Tips

1. Warm Water is Key: Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Kneading: Kneading helps develop gluten, which gives the bread structure and texture. Make sure to knead for a full 8-10 minutes.
3. Use a Loaf Pan: Using a loaf pan gives the bread shape and helps it bake evenly.

Variations to Try

1. Garlic Bread: Add garlic and herbs to the dough before baking for a savory twist.
2. Sweet Bread: Add a handful of raisins, cinnamon, or dried fruit to the dough for a sweet variation.
3. Multigrain Bread: Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, oats, or seeds for a more wholesome, textured loaf.

Conclusion

This Homemade Bread Recipe is simple, quick, and produces a soft, fluffy loaf that’s perfect for any meal. With basic ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy fresh, warm bread right from your own kitchen. Whether as a side dish, sandwich bread, or snack, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use a bread machine for this recipe by following the machine’s instructions for adding ingredients and setting the dough cycle.

2. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
   Yes, you can. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water with sugar before adding it to the flour mixture. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

3. Can I make this bread without an oven?
   You can try making this bread in a slow cooker or stovetop skillet if you don’t have an oven, though the texture may vary slightly.

4. How do I store leftover bread?
   Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

5. Can I add more flour if the dough is too sticky?
   Yes, you can add a little more flour, but try not to add too much, as it can make the bread dense.

6. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, though the texture may differ slightly. You may need to add a binder like xanthan gum.

7. How do I make the crust extra crispy?
   For a crispy crust, you can spray the top of the dough with water before baking or bake it on a baking stone.

8. Can I add herbs to the dough?
   Yes, feel free to add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for additional flavor.

9. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan, adjusting the baking time slightly if needed.

10. How do I know when the bread is done?
    The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom or when a thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F (88°C).