Fresh and Simple Homemade Bread Recipe
Freshly baked bread has a way of turning an ordinary day into something special. The process of making it at home is surprisingly simple, and the reward is well worth the effort. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a loaf that’s soft, fragrant, and full of homemade goodness. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel connected to the basics of cooking, where time and care come together to create something truly satisfying.
This bread recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. With no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, you can enjoy the pleasure of homemade bread without any stress. The dough kneads easily, and the rising time is just enough to build anticipation. By the time the bread comes out of the oven, you’ll be greeted with a golden, tender loaf that’s perfect for any meal. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this homemade bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Fresh and Simple Homemade Bread Recipe
8
servings15
minutes30
minutes1,600
kcalMaking homemade bread easy is a rewarding experience that brings the comfort of freshly baked bread right into your kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a soft, golden loaf that pairs perfectly with any meal. The process is easy to follow, even for beginners, and doesn’t require any special equipment. Kneading the dough and watching it rise is a satisfying experience, and the end result is a delicious, fragrant loaf of bread that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast, a hearty sandwich, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter, this homemade bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a softer texture)
Directions
- Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You should see bubbles or foam forming on top, indicating that the yeast is activated.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Stir to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
- Next, pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour bowl, and add the olive oil if you’re using it. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or spatula until it forms a sticky dough.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
- Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding the edges into the center and rolling it tightly.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, until it has puffed up and fills the pan.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your fresh, homemade bread!
Recipe Video
Notes
- For best results, make sure the water is at the right temperature when activating the yeast—about 110°F (43°C). Too hot, and it can kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
- If you prefer a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with a little olive oil or melted butter right after baking. This adds extra flavor and keeps the bread soft on top.
Conclusion
Baking homemade bread is a truly rewarding experience that anyone can enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a soft, flavorful loaf perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to baking or have some experience, this easy recipe makes it simple to enjoy fresh bread at home. There’s nothing better than slicing into a warm loaf straight from the oven. Give this recipe a try and bring the joy of homemade bread to your kitchen.
