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Simple Yeast Bread Recipe

This easy yeast bread recipe is perfect for beginners and results in a soft, fluffy loaf. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create homemade bread that is delicious and satisfying.

The process involves activating the yeast, mixing the dough, and allowing it to rise, making it straightforward to follow.

Creating the Perfect Loaf

Making homemade yeast bread is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas.

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

This process is straightforward, making it ideal for those new to baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The foundation of this bread includes active dry yeast, warm water, sugar, olive oil or melted butter, salt, and all-purpose flour.

These basic ingredients come together to create a delightful loaf that can be enjoyed in various ways.

From sandwiches to toast, the possibilities are endless.

Activating the Yeast

Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl.

Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

This step is crucial, as it ensures your bread will rise properly.

Kneading for Texture

Once the yeast is activated, mix it with olive oil, salt, and flour in a large bowl.

Stir until combined, then gradually add more flour until a dough forms.

Kneading the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes develops the gluten, resulting in a smooth and elastic texture.

The Rising Process

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

Allow it to rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

This fermentation process is essential for achieving that light and airy texture.

Shaping and Baking

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf.

Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover it again, letting it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cooling and Enjoying

After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

This cooling period allows the crust to set while keeping the inside soft.

Once cooled, slice the loaf and enjoy it fresh, perhaps with a pat of butter or your favorite spread.

Homemade Yeast Bread Made Easy

A golden brown loaf of homemade yeast bread sliced on a wooden board with a butter knife.

This yeast bread features a light and airy texture, perfect for sandwiches or toasting. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and yields one loaf.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (more for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Stir until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 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: 2 hours
  • Servings: 1 loaf
  • Calories: 120kcal per slice
  • Fat: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g

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Simple Yeast Bread Recipe

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