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Homemade Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 26 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Homemade Bread recipe yields a soft, golden loaf with a slightly crisp crust. Utilizing active dry yeast, warm water, and simple pantry ingredients, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. The step-by-step process includes proofing yeast, kneading dough, and baking to perfection, resulting in an inviting loaf that fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Ideal for beginner bakers and bread lovers alike.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Additional flour for dusting

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the granulated sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the dough.
  3. Form the dough: Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter) into the flour mixture. Stir with a spoon until a soft dough begins to form.
  4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but no longer sticky.
  5. First rise: Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Shape the dough into a loaf by folding and tucking it into a uniform shape that fits your bread pan.
  7. Second rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover the pan and let the dough rise again in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the dough has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
  8. Preheat the oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
  9. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust turns golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it is baked through.
  10. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to allow the crumb to set and prevent crushing the loaf.

Notes

  • For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
  • Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
  • For longer storage, freeze the bread in an airtight bag and thaw slices as needed.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/homemade-bread-recipe/