Description
This easy homemade bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches or toast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of freshly baked bread in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute some with whole wheat flour)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter) to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- This bread can be customized by adding herbs, garlic, or seeds to the dough for extra flavor.
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to prevent killing the yeast.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1 oz)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg