Simple Active Dry Yeast Bread Recipe

This easy bread recipe uses active dry yeast to create a soft and fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or toast. With just a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy homemade bread fresh from your oven.

The process is straightforward, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced bakers. You can customize the bread by adding herbs, seeds, or cheese for extra flavor.

Creating the Perfect Loaf

Baking bread at home can be a rewarding experience, especially when the aroma fills your kitchen.

With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a loaf that is both crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.

This process is accessible for anyone, whether you’re new to baking or have some experience under your belt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful bread, gather the essentials: all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, salt, sugar, warm water, and optionally, olive oil.

These ingredients come together to create a loaf that serves as a versatile base for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs.

Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired texture and flavor.

The yeast is crucial for the rise, while the flour provides structure.

The Baking Process

Start by activating the yeast in warm water mixed with sugar.

This step is essential for ensuring that your bread rises properly.

Once the yeast is frothy, combine it with the dry ingredients to form a shaggy dough.

Kneading the dough is where the magic happens.

Spend about 8-10 minutes working the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.

This step develops the gluten, which gives the bread its airy texture.

Rising to the Occasion

After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.

Let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size.

This first rise is crucial for developing flavor and texture.

Once risen, shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased pan for the second rise.

This step allows the dough to expand further, ensuring a light and fluffy interior.

Bringing It All Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough completes its second rise.

Baking the bread for 25-30 minutes will yield a golden brown crust that sounds hollow when tapped.

After removing it from the oven, let the loaf cool on a wire rack.

This cooling period is important to set the texture before slicing into your freshly baked creation.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, slice the bread to reveal its airy interior.

Serve it with a small bowl of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs for a delightful accompaniment.

This simple addition enhances the flavor and makes for a perfect starter or side dish.

Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or as part of a sandwich, this homemade bread is sure to impress.

Its rustic charm and inviting aroma will make it a favorite in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy Bread with Active Dry Yeast

This bread recipe yields a light and airy loaf that takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including rising time. It serves as a versatile base for various toppings and spreads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil (if using) into the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
7. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it rises above the rim of the pan.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. 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: 12 slices
• Calories: 120kcal
• Fat: 1.5g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 23g