Name: Homemade Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2¼ teaspoons Active dry yeast ((1 packet)); 2¼ cups Warm water; ¼ cup Sugar ((plus 1 pinch)); 1 tablespoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil; 5½ – 6½ cups Bread flour; 1 serving Butter for topping ((optional))

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of fresh bread wafting through the kitchen, and nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling your very own homemade loaf from the oven. This Homemade Bread Recipe is one that I hold dear, as it reminds me of cozy family gatherings and the warmth of shared meals. When I first learned to make bread, I was captivated by the transformation that occurs with just a few simple ingredients: flour, yeast, water, and a bit of salt. It’s a beautiful process, one that connects us to generations of bakers before us.

Every time I knead the dough, I feel a sense of calm wash over me. There’s a magic in the way the ingredients come together, creating a soft, elastic dough that rises to perfection. I remember the first time I made this bread for my family, how their eyes lit up with joy as they took the first warm slice. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love baking so much. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through cooking.

As you embark on your baking journey with this Homemade Bread Recipe, there’s nothing like the anticipation of watching the dough double in size and the delight of slicing into a warm loaf. Whether you enjoy it with a smear of butter, as the base for a delicious sandwich, or just on its own, homemade bread has a way of bringing people together. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
2 g

Tools Used:
Loaf pans

What Makes This Homemade Bread Recipe Special

Comforting Aroma

The scent of freshly baked bread is undeniable. It fills your home with an inviting warmth that’s hard to resist. I love how this Homemade Bread Recipe creates a setting where everyone gathers around, eager to enjoy a slice straight from the oven.

Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of pantry staples, making your own bread is not only economical but also incredibly rewarding. You’ll find that the combination of yeast, water, sugar, salt, and flour works together beautifully, creating a fluffy texture that’s simply unmatched.

Therapeutic Process

Kneading the dough is almost meditative. I find that it’s a great stress reliever! The tactile experience of working the dough and feeling it come together is so satisfying. Plus, it’s an excellent workout for your arms!

Customization Potential

This recipe is a canvas for creativity. You can add herbs, spices, or cheese to make it your own. I love experimenting with different flavors, and it’s always fun to see what new twist I can incorporate into my loaves.

Healthier Option

Making bread at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you’re consuming a healthier loaf. You can choose whole-grain flours or add seeds and nuts for added nutrition. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!

Perfect for Sharing

Nothing brings people together quite like sharing a homemade loaf of bread. Whether it’s a family meal, a picnic, or a gathering with friends, this Homemade Bread Recipe is sure to impress and warm the hearts of everyone who enjoys it.

Recipe Ingredients for Homemade Bread Recipe

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and this Homemade Bread Recipe is no exception. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing flavor and texture. Together, they create a masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.

2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – This little powerhouse is what makes your bread rise and gives it that fluffy, airy texture we all love.
2¼ cups warm water – Warm water is essential for activating the yeast. It should feel like a warm bath, not hot to the touch.
¼ cup sugar (plus 1 pinch) – This adds a touch of sweetness while also helping to feed the yeast, aiding in that perfect rise.
1 tablespoon salt – Salt enhances flavor and also helps control the fermentation process of the yeast.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – A little fat adds richness to your bread and helps keep it moist.
5½ – 6½ cups bread flour – The star of the show! Bread flour has a higher protein content, giving your bread structure and chew.
butter for topping (optional) – A brushed layer of melted butter adds a delightful finish to your freshly baked loaves.

The Method for Homemade Bread Recipe

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together. This part is truly where the magic happens with the Homemade Bread Recipe. Follow me step by step as we create a deliciously soft loaf.

In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. The mixture should become bubbly and foamy within a few minutes, which indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to go. This is a crucial step, so keep an eye on it!
Once the yeast is bubbly, add the remaining sugar, salt, oil, and 4 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until smooth. You’re aiming for a nice, thick batter at this point. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
Now, gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time. This is where you’ll start to form a soft, smooth dough. The dough should stick just slightly to your finger when touched but not be overly sticky. This is the sweet spot for texture!
Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. I love this part! If you’re using a stand mixer, let it do the work for you; otherwise, sprinkle a little flour on your countertop and knead with your hands until it feels just right.
Once kneaded, shape your dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning it over once to coat the top with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for one hour or until it has doubled in size.
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a long rectangle, about 8 inches wide. Roll the dough up, starting at the short edge, to form a cylinder.
Place the rolled dough, seam side down, into lightly greased bread pans. Cover with plastic wrap again and let rise for another hour, or until the dough is ½ to 1 inch higher than the top of the pan. Patience is key here!
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once ready, bake the loaves for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. This is the moment of truth!
If you like, brush the tops with melted butter for added flavor and shine. Remove the loaves from the pans and let them cool on a rack before slicing.

Things Worth Knowing

Timing is Key: Make sure to allow the dough enough time to rise properly. This will help create a light, fluffy loaf.
Kneading Technique: Kneading develops the gluten, which is crucial for a good rise. Don’t skip this step!
Temperature Control: If your kitchen is too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) for the rising period.
Ingredient Accuracy: Measure your flour accurately! Too much can lead to dense bread. I always recommend spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.

Ways to Customize

One of the things I love most about baking is the ability to personalize your recipes. This Homemade Bread Recipe is no different. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Herb Infusions: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Cheese Additions: Consider folding in some shredded cheese like cheddar for a cheesy bread that’s great for sandwiches.
Nutty Goodness: Incorporate chopped nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, for texture.
Sweet Variations: Add dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweeter version.
Whole Grains: Substitute a portion of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Different Shapes: Instead of loaves, shape the dough into rolls or dinner knots for a fun presentation.
Artisan Style: Try scoring the top of the dough before baking for a beautiful artisan look.

What to Pair With Homemade Bread Recipe

Serving your freshly baked bread brings a sense of joy to any meal. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas that will elevate your bread experience:

Soup Duos: Pair your Homemade Bread Recipe with hearty soups like tomato or minestrone for a comforting meal.
Sandwich Base: Use slices of this bread to create delicious sandwiches. It’s perfect for everything from classic turkey to vegetarian options.
Brunch Delight: Enjoy it with scrambled eggs or avocado for a delightful brunch.
For Dipping: Serve alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tasty dipping option.
Storage: Store your bread in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days. If you want it to last longer, slice it and freeze it!
Holiday Table: This bread is a lovely addition to holiday dinners. Its warmth and heartiness make it a festive choice!
Cheese Pairing: Serve with a selection of cheeses for a simple yet delightful cheese board.

FAQ

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for this Homemade Bread Recipe. However, keep in mind that bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps create a better structure and chew in the bread. If you do use all-purpose flour, the texture may be slightly different, but it will still yield a delicious loaf.

One way to check if your bread is done baking is to tap the bottom of the loaf gently. If it sounds hollow, that’s a clear sign that it’s ready! Additionally, the bread should be a nice golden brown color. If you’re unsure, you can use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F to 200°F for a fully baked loaf.

If your dough doesn’t rise, there are a few things to check. First, make sure that your yeast is active; it should be bubbly and foamy after being mixed with warm water. If it’s not, the yeast may be expired or the water might have been too hot or too cold. Additionally, ensure that your dough is kept in a warm environment, as cool temperatures can inhibit rising.

Absolutely! Freezing homemade bread is a great way to preserve it for later. Once fully cooled, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of slices and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also pop them in the toaster or oven for a quick warm-up!

Conclusion

This Homemade Bread Recipe is truly special, as it not only fills your home with a wonderful aroma but also brings family and friends together. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; once you experience the joy of slicing into your own freshly baked loaf, you won’t want to go back to store-bought bread. Happy baking!