This homemade bread recipe gives you a perfectly crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. It’s an easy and versatile option suitable for any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a great go-to for novice and experienced bakers alike. The freshly baked bread will fill your home with a delightful aroma, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes resting)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
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:
- Activate Yeast:
Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water and stir until fully dissolved. - Initial Dough:
Add 120 grams of flour to the yeast mixture and stir until smooth. Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes. - Mix the Dough:
Add 400 ml of warm water, mix well, and gradually incorporate 720 grams of flour and salt. Knead for 3-4 minutes until the dough is soft but slightly non-sticky. - First Rise:
Cover the dough and let it rise until it doubles in size (about 1-2 hours). - Shaping:
Remove air by gently kneading the dough, then divide it into two parts. Roll each into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes. - Final Shaping:
Lightly flour the surface, stretch the dough with your fingers, and then roll inward. Repeat with the second dough. - Final Rise and Bake:
Arrange the dough on a baking tray, cover, and let rise for 20 minutes. Brush with the egg yolk and milk mixture. Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast.
- Use for sandwiches, toast, or serve with soups and stews.
- Slice and serve alongside charcuterie boards or cheese platters.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead the dough gently to avoid overworking, which can lead to tough bread.
- Brush the dough with an egg wash for a shinier, golden crust.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Carbohydrates from the flour provide energy.
- Yeast contains B vitamins, important for metabolism.
- Making homemade bread allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten (from the flour).
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made dairy-free by skipping the egg yolk and milk wash.
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:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Store in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The recipe is simple and easy to follow, with minimal ingredients.
- Produces bakery-quality bread with a perfectly crispy crust and soft interior.
- Versatile—serve for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks.
- The aroma of freshly baked bread will fill your home and make any meal special.
Conclusion:
This homemade bread recipe is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy freshly baked bread at home. Its crispy crust and soft, airy interior make it perfect for a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner. With a few simple ingredients, you can create bakery-quality bread that’s healthier and more flavorful than store-bought options. Once you try it, this will likely become a staple in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, instant yeast can be used without dissolving it in water. Just mix it directly with the flour.
- What if my dough doesn’t rise? Check that your yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is correct (not too hot or cold). Ensure your dough is in a warm, draft-free place.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but the bread will be denser. You may need to adjust the water content slightly.
- 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 herbs, cheese, or even seeds during the kneading process for extra flavor.
- How do I prevent the bread from being too dry? Avoid overbaking and ensure that you have enough moisture in your dough.
- Can I make this recipe with a bread machine? Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for mixing and baking times.
- What’s the best way to thaw frozen bread? Thaw the bread at room temperature, or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Can I use milk instead of water? Yes, using milk will result in a richer and slightly denser bread.
- How long should I let the dough rise? Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1-2 hours depending on the temperature