This simple homemade bread recipe yields one delicious loaf, perfect for beginners. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a warm, fresh loaf of bread that is perfect for sandwiches or toast.
The process is straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to try their hand at baking bread at home.
Ingredients for Homemade Bread
Creating a delicious loaf of homemade bread requires just a handful of ingredients. The essentials include all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, warm water, sugar, salt, and optionally, olive oil.
These ingredients come together to form a simple yet satisfying dough. The yeast is the star of the show, providing the necessary lift and texture.
With the right proportions, you can achieve a fluffy interior and a delightful crust that makes each slice irresistible.
The Bread-Making Process
The process of making homemade bread is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Start by activating the yeast in warm water mixed with sugar, allowing it to froth and come to life. This step is crucial for ensuring your bread rises properly.
Next, combine the flour and salt, creating a well to pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rising and Shaping the Dough
Once kneaded, the dough needs to rise. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it sit in a warm area until it doubles in size.
This first rise is essential for developing flavor and texture. Afterward, punch down the dough to release the air, then shape it into a loaf.
Transfer the shaped dough to a greased loaf pan for the second rise, allowing it to puff up again before baking.
Baking the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as the dough completes its second rise.
Bake the loaf for about 25-30 minutes until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is simply delightful, making the wait worthwhile.
Cooling and Slicing
After baking, it’s important to let the bread cool on a wire rack.
This cooling period allows the steam to escape, ensuring the crust remains crispy while the interior stays soft.
Once cooled, slice the loaf to reveal its fluffy texture, perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting snack.
It also makes an excellent base for sandwiches or toast, allowing you to get creative with toppings.
Pair it with soups or salads for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a delightful treat.
Simple One Loaf Bread Recipe
This easy homemade bread is made with flour, yeast, water, and salt, resulting in a soft and fluffy loaf. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves as a great introduction to bread baking.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Calories: 120kcal per slice
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g