Bread-making is a timeless culinary tradition that has brought warmth and comfort to kitchens worldwide. This simple homemade bread recipe combines basic pantry ingredients to create a soft, fluffy, and flavorful loaf. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. With the perfect balance of olive oil and butter, this bread is versatile enough for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoying warm with a spread of butter. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful bread from scratch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- Flour: 2 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Yeast: 2 tablespoons
Wet Ingredients
- Lukewarm water: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
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Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the yeast, which will help the bread rise evenly. -
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add the lukewarm water, olive oil, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Make sure the water is lukewarm (around 38°C/100°F) to activate the yeast without killing it. -
Form a Dough
Mix all the ingredients until a cohesive dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands for this step. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 2: Kneading the Dough
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Transfer to a Floured Surface
Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. This step prevents the dough from sticking while you knead. -
Knead Thoroughly
Knead the dough by folding and pressing it with the heels of your hands. Rotate the dough slightly after each fold. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Proper kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rest
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Prepare for Proofing
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. -
First Rise
Allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes in a warm, draft-free spot. This resting period activates the yeast, causing the dough to rise and become airy.
Step 4: Shaping the Loaves
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Prepare the Work Surface
Dust your work surface lightly with flour. Turn the rested dough onto the surface and gently punch it down to release any large air bubbles. -
Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into two portions if you’re making smaller loaves, or keep it as one piece for a larger loaf. Shape the dough into oval or round loaves, or form rolls if desired. -
Prepare the Baking Tray
Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s enough space between the loaves for expansion during baking.
Step 5: Baking the Bread
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while the dough rests for a final 10 minutes on the tray. -
Bake the Loaves
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. The bread should turn golden brown on top. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of a loaf – it should sound hollow. -
Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Cooling prevents the bread from becoming soggy on the bottom and helps it firm up for slicing.
Tips for Perfect Bread
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Use Fresh Yeast
Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Using fresh, active yeast ensures proper rising and a light texture. -
Measure Precisely
Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements, especially for flour. Too much flour can make the bread dense. -
Don’t Overmix
Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread. -
Knead Effectively
Proper kneading develops gluten, essential for structure and elasticity. If you’re new to kneading, practice folding and pressing techniques. -
Control the Temperature
Bread dough rises best in a warm, draft-free environment. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough near a slightly warm oven or microwave. -
Customize the Flavor
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or sprinkle seeds such as sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it will result in denser bread. To balance the texture, consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour.
2. What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading. Be cautious not to add too much, as this can make the bread dry.
3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works well in this recipe. Since it doesn’t require activation, you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
4. How can I store leftover bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw them as needed.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil.
6. Why didn’t my bread rise?
If your bread didn’t rise, the yeast might have been old or the water temperature could have been too hot, killing the yeast. Always use lukewarm water and fresh yeast.
7. Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes! You can mix in ingredients like garlic powder, grated cheese, or dried herbs for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 10 Servings)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Storage
- Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To use, thaw at room temperature or toast before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade bread is a simple yet rewarding recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a loaf that’s soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for beginners and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re pairing it with soup, spreading it with butter, or enjoying it as a standalone treat, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking!