The Best Homemade Bread Recipe
Baking homemade bread is a truly satisfying experience. The smell of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen and instantly makes everything feel cozier. It might seem like a complicated process, but it’s easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a loaf of bread that’s better than anything you could buy from the store. The soft, fluffy texture and golden-brown crust are sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just starting out, this recipe is perfect for making the best homemade bread with minimal effort.
What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. There’s no need for special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just flour, yeast, water, salt, and a bit of oil come together to create something truly delicious. The process is a bit of a wait as the dough rises, but it’s so rewarding when you finally get to slice into the warm loaf. You can use it for sandwiches, enjoy it with a little butter, or serve it alongside a nice bowl of soup. Homemade bread is a great way to add something special to any meal, and once you make it, you’ll want to bake it all the time.
Homemade Bread Recipe
8-10
servings15
minutes25
minutes~1,765
kcalBaking your own bread at home is a rewarding and delicious experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden-brown crust that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a side for dinner, use it to make sandwiches, or just spread a little butter on a warm slice, this bread adds something special to your meals. The process is straightforward, and even beginners will find it easy to follow. Homemade bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun and satisfying recipe to make over and over again.
Ingredients
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
1 tablespoon milk (optional, for a softer crust)
Directions
- Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Give it a quick stir to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
- Once the dry ingredients are mixed, pour in the activated yeast mixture, olive oil (or melted butter), and honey (if you’re using it). Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and start kneading. Fold the dough over, press down, and turn it as you go. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but don’t overdo it.
- Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can make it round or rectangular, depending on what you prefer.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan and cover it with the kitchen towel again. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help ensure that the bread bakes evenly and gets a nice, golden color.
- Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the bread set and make it easier to cut.
Recipe Video
Notes
- It’s crucial to allow the dough to rise for the right amount of time. If it doesn’t rise enough, your bread may turn out dense rather than light and fluffy. Be sure to let the dough double in size during both the first and second rise.
Conclusion
Making homemade bread is a rewarding experience that brings both comfort and satisfaction. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy the magic of fresh, warm bread right in your own kitchen. Once you’ve experienced the joy of baking your own bread, you’ll never want to settle for store-bought again. Try it today and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade bread!
