This traditional homemade bread recipe is simple yet delivers professional-quality results. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a light and fluffy loaf with a golden, crispy crust. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is foolproof and versatile, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or a warm slice with butter.
Ingredients
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Rise Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3-4 hours
Warm water: 1 ½ cups (370 ml)
Dry yeast: 2 teaspoons (10 g)
Flour: 4 cups (500 g)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast.
Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is dissolved and bubbly.
- Make the Dough
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture.
Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in additional flour one tablespoon at a time.
- First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough
Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles.
Shape it into a loaf or your preferred form, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise
Cover the dough again and let it rise for 30-45 minutes until it doubles in size.
- Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Homemade Bread
- Soft Crust Option: Brush melted butter on top of the bread immediately after baking for a softer crust.
- Flavored Bread: Add seeds, herbs, or spices to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Check Your Yeast: Always use fresh yeast for optimal rise. If it doesn’t foam during activation, replace it.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients are not too cold to help the yeast activate properly.
- Avoid Over-flouring: Add flour sparingly during kneading to avoid a dense loaf.
Variations
- Herb Bread: Mix in fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic loaf.
- Seeded Loaf: Add sesame seeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds for crunch and nutrition.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.
- Garlic Bread: Incorporate minced garlic and shredded cheese for a savory twist.
- Sweet Bread: Add a tablespoon of honey or sugar to the dough for a lightly sweet flavor.
How to Store Homemade Bread
- Room Temperature: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in a bread box for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Avoid storing bread in the fridge as it can dry out quickly.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients, skipping the activation step. - How do I know if my yeast is still good?
Test the yeast by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. If it bubbles and foams within 10 minutes, it’s active. - Can I make gluten-free bread with this recipe?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free bread flour blend. Gluten-free dough may require additional rising time. - How do I prevent my bread from being too dense?
Dense bread is often caused by insufficient kneading, under-proofing, or old yeast. Knead thoroughly and allow enough time for the dough to rise. - Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! After the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking. - How can I make the crust softer?
Brush the loaf with melted butter after baking or cover it with a damp cloth while it cools. - Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits?
Yes, fold in your favorite additions during the mixing step. Adjust the rising time as needed.
This homemade bread recipe is versatile, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!