This simple bread recipe utilizes instant yeast for a fast and efficient rise, making it perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious loaf of homemade bread in no time.
The process is straightforward, requiring minimal kneading and rising time, allowing you to enjoy fresh bread without the lengthy wait.
Creating the Perfect Loaf
Making bread at home can be a rewarding experience, especially when the result is a golden crust with a soft, fluffy interior. This simple recipe utilizes instant yeast, which allows for a quick rise, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy homemade bread without the lengthy process.
The ingredients are straightforward and easily accessible. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious loaf that is perfect for sandwiches or simply toasting with butter. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen is an added bonus that enhances the entire baking experience.
The Baking Process
The process of making this bread is designed to be user-friendly. Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. This includes all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Once combined, the next step is to add the wet ingredients, which consist of warm water and olive oil. Stirring these together will form a dough that is ready for kneading.
Kneading the dough is a crucial step that helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure. After about five minutes of kneading on a lightly floured surface, the dough should become smooth and elastic. This is a satisfying part of the process, as you can feel the transformation happening in your hands.
Rising Time
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area for approximately 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This rising period is essential for achieving that light and airy texture that everyone loves in homemade bread.
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover it again, letting it rise for another 15-20 minutes. This second rise is what helps create the perfect height and texture in your finished loaf.
Baking to Perfection
While the dough is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread starts baking at the right temperature, contributing to a beautifully golden crust. Once the dough has risen, it’s time to bake!
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns a lovely golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The anticipation builds as the aroma fills your kitchen, signaling that your homemade bread is almost ready.
Cooling and Enjoying
After baking, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the steam to escape, preventing the bread from becoming soggy.
Once cooled, slice into the loaf to reveal its soft, fluffy interior. The first slice is always the most satisfying, showcasing the beautiful texture and inviting you to enjoy a piece right away. Whether you choose to spread some butter or enjoy it plain, this homemade bread is sure to impress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Use it for sandwiches, toast it for breakfast, or serve it alongside soups and salads. Its simple yet delightful flavor pairs well with numerous toppings, making it a staple in any kitchen.
With this quick and easy recipe, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that brings warmth and comfort to your home. Baking bread from scratch is not only a skill worth mastering but also a wonderful way to share love and joy with family and friends.
Simple Instant Yeast Bread Recipe
This bread features a soft, fluffy texture and a golden crust. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and yields one loaf, perfect for sandwiches or toasting.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Calories: 120kcal per slice
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 22g