introduction
This easy homemade bread recipe makes two soft loaves with simple ingredients. It uses active dry yeast, warm water, a bit of sweetener, oil, salt, and flour. The steps are clear and the result is warm, fresh bread you can slice for sandwiches or toast. If you enjoy simple homemade snacks, try a related recipe like bold buttery homemade Chex Mix for a quick treat.
why make this recipe
Make this bread because it is simple, uses basic pantry ingredients, and gives fresh bread with a soft crumb and golden crust. It is cheaper than store bread and tastes better warm from the oven.
how to make Homemade Bread
Follow the directions below step by step. The dough proofs twice and bakes into two 9×5″ loaves. Keep the dough warm for good rising and brush with butter after baking for a soft top.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups warm water (105-115 degrees) ((474g))
- 1 Tablespoons active dry yeast*
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar ((85g honey, 50g sugar))
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable) ((30 ml))
- 4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour* ((500g-688g))
Directions :
- In a large bowl or stand mixer add the yeast, warm water and a pinch of the sugar or honey.
- Allow the yeast mixture to rest 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
- Add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour and mix to combine.
- Add another cup of flour and mix until combined.
- With the mixer running, add more flour 1/2 cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the bowl sides.
- Check the dough: it should be smooth, elastic, and slightly stick to a clean finger.
- Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Knead the dough 4-5 minutes on medium speed or knead by hand 5-8 minutes on a lightly floured surface.
- Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat with oil.
- Cover the dough and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Spray two 9×5” bread pans with cooking spray and optionally line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Punch the dough down to remove air bubbles and divide into two equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a long log and place into the greased loaf pans.
- Cover the pans with a lightweight dry towel or sprayed plastic wrap and let rise 45-60 minutes until about 1 inch above the pans.
- Preheat the oven to 350 F.
- Bake the loaves 30-33 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Tap the top of a loaf; it should sound hollow when done.
- Invert the loaves onto a wire cooling rack and brush the tops with butter.
- Allow bread to cool at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature 2-3 days or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
how to serve Homemade Bread
Slice the bread and serve warm with butter, jam, or cheese. Use it for sandwiches, toast, or as a side with soup and salads.
how to store Homemade Bread
Keep cooled bread in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
tips to make Homemade Bread
- Use water between 105-115°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Proof the yeast first to confirm it is active.
- Keep the dough warm for good rises; a slightly warm oven or warm spot works well.
- Do not add too much flour; dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Brush with butter after baking for a softer crust and better flavor.
variation (if any)
You can replace 1 cup of flour with whole wheat for a nuttier loaf. Add 1-2 tablespoons of herbs or 1/4 cup seeds for flavor. Reduce sugar for a less sweet bread.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if the yeast is still good?
A: When you mix yeast with warm water and a pinch of sugar, it should foam in 5-10 minutes. If it does not foam, the yeast is not active.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes. If using instant yeast, you can mix it with the flour directly and skip the proofing step, though proofing still helps flavor.
Q: Why is my bread dense?
A: Dense bread can come from using too much flour, not kneading enough, or not allowing enough rise time. Check dough texture and give it full rise time.
Conclusion
This recipe makes two soft, home-baked loaves with simple steps and common ingredients. For another tested bread recipe and extra tips, see Homemade Bread Recipe – Tastes Better from Scratch.