Nothing beats the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s made right in your own kitchen. This Easy Homemade Bread recipe combines the simplicity of basic ingredients with the satisfaction of creating a warm, golden loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through each step to achieve bakery-quality bread at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 2/3 cup honey
- 1 3/4 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 6 cups bread flour
Instructions
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Begin by creating the foundation of your bread: the yeast mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water, 2/3 cup of honey, and 1 3/4 tablespoons of active dry yeast. The water should be warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast effectively, but not too hot to kill it. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. Mix the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, it’s time to mix in the remaining ingredients to form the dough.
- To the yeast mixture, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually add 6 cups of bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for easier mixing. The dough will start to come together and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead the Dough
Now comes the crucial step of kneading the dough to develop its gluten structure.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps to distribute the yeast evenly and develop the dough’s texture. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much flour as it can make the bread dense.
4. First Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a large greased bowl. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size. The ideal temperature for rising is around 80°F. You can place the bowl in a turned-off oven or near a sunny window to create a warm environment for the dough.
5. Shape and Second Rise
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf. You can use your hands to gently stretch and shape the dough, tucking the edges underneath to create a smooth top surface. Place each loaf into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Cover the pans with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes, or until the loaves have risen above the edges of the pans.
6. Preheat and Bake
Now it’s time to bake your loaves to golden perfection.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately transfer the loaves from the pans to wire racks to cool. This prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy as they cool.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This step helps to retain moisture and ensures clean slices.
- Slice the bread and serve it warm with butter, honey, jam, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy the fresh, homemade flavor and the satisfaction of baking your own bread from scratch.
Cook’s Notes
Tips for Success:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure the water is the right temperature to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.
- Kneading: Proper kneading is essential for developing gluten and achieving the right texture in your bread. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
- Rising Time: Rising times may vary based on room temperature and humidity. The dough should double in size during the first rise and rise again in the loaf pans.
Variations
Customizing Your Bread:
- Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half or all of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
- Herb and Cheese Bread: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil, along with shredded cheese into the dough for a savory twist.
- Cinnamon Raisin Bread: Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough during mixing for a sweet and aromatic loaf.
This Easy Homemade Bread recipe offers more than just a delicious loaf—it provides a rewarding baking experience that connects you with the timeless tradition of breadmaking. From mixing simple ingredients to savoring the first bite of warm, freshly baked bread, this recipe brings joy and satisfaction to your kitchen. Embrace the process, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade bread with every slice.
Bake, share, and savor the simple pleasure of homemade bread with family and friends. Happy baking!
