Simple Homemade Bread is a soft and fluffy loaf that’s easy to make and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a spread of butter. With basic ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is great for beginners looking to make their own bread at home.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.
Step 2: Add Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in 2 cups of flour and the salt, mixing until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, gradually adding the remaining 1 cup of flour until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size again.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm (not hot), around 110°F. Hot water can kill the yeast, while cold water won’t activate it properly.
- Kneading Time: Kneading helps develop the gluten, giving the bread structure. The dough should be elastic and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Rising Environment: If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to ensure it rises properly.
Variations
1. Whole Wheat Bread
Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf with added fiber.
2. Herb and Garlic Bread
Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) and 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the flour mixture for a flavorful loaf.
3. Honey Oat Bread
Replace the sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey and sprinkle rolled oats on top of the loaf before baking for a lightly sweet and wholesome twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Butter and Jam: Serve warm slices with butter and your favorite jam for a classic breakfast.
- Sandwiches: Use the bread to make sandwiches with your favorite fillings for a homemade touch.
- Garlic Toast: Slice the bread and brush with garlic butter before toasting for a delicious side to pasta dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Simple Homemade Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover homemade bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. You can skip the step of activating the yeast in warm water and add the instant yeast directly to the dry ingredients.
Simple Homemade Bread is a versatile, beginner-friendly recipe that delivers a soft and fluffy loaf every time. Whether you’re new to bread-making or looking for an easy, reliable recipe, this bread is sure to please. Enjoy it warm from the oven with butter, or use it to make your favorite sandwiches—there’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade bread. Give it a try and fill your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked bread!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
