Homemade bread is a staple recipe that brings the warmth of baking into your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, this classic bread recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. The result is a soft, flavorful loaf with a perfectly golden crust that’s ideal for sandwiches, toast, or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (370 ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons (10 g) dry yeast
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Wooden spoon or dough scraper for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements
- Clean kitchen cloth for covering the dough during rising
- Parchment paper or a greased loaf pan for shaping and baking
- Wire rack for cooling
Directions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by warming 1 ½ cups of water to approximately 37°C–40°C (98°F–104°F). The water should be warm to the touch but not hot, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and 2 tablespoons of dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast completely. Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes. During this time, the yeast will activate and become foamy, indicating it’s ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
To the activated yeast mixture, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until the ingredients come together to form a rough dough. The dough should begin to pull away from the sides of the bowl but remain slightly sticky to the touch.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Begin kneading by pressing and folding the dough with the heel of your hand. Knead for about 8–10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough is ready when it feels smooth, elastic, and no longer sticks to your hands.
Step 4: First Rise
Lightly oil a large, clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen cloth to retain moisture. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release trapped air. Shape the dough into a loaf or your preferred form. For a classic loaf, roll the dough into a rectangle, then tightly roll it into a log. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough with a clean cloth and allow it to rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This second rise ensures a light and airy texture in the finished bread.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) during the second rise. Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. The bread is done when the crust is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Tips for Perfect Bread
- Soft Crust Option: For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add seeds (such as sesame or poppy), dried herbs, or even grated cheese to the dough for added flavor and texture.
- Temperature Check: Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bread. It should reach about 90°C (190°F) for a fully baked loaf.
- Steam for a Crisp Crust: Place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam, which helps achieve a crisp crust.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this homemade bread fresh and warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Slice it for sandwiches, pair it with soups, or use it for toast with your favorite spread.
- Serve alongside hearty dishes like stew, roasted meats, or salads for a comforting accompaniment.
Nutritional Benefits
Homemade bread, made with simple and wholesome ingredients, offers several nutritional advantages:
- Whole-Grain Option: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for additional fiber and nutrients.
- Low Additives: Unlike store-bought bread, this homemade version contains no preservatives or artificial additives.
- Customizable Ingredients: You control the salt and sugar content, making it suitable for specific dietary needs.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Avoid refrigerating bread, as it can dry out quickly.
- Freezing: Freeze whole or sliced bread in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the toaster or oven to restore their fresh-baked texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, substitute dry yeast with fresh yeast at a ratio of 3:1. For this recipe, use about 30g of fresh yeast.
2. How can I make the bread fluffier?
Ensure your yeast is active and the dough has enough time to rise. Also, avoid adding too much flour, as this can make the bread dense.
3. What if I don’t have a warm place for the dough to rise?
Create a warm environment by preheating your oven to the lowest temperature, then turning it off. Place the covered dough inside the oven to rise.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for structure.
Conclusion
This Classic Homemade Bread recipe is a versatile and rewarding addition to any kitchen. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in no time. Whether served warm with butter, as part of a meal, or used for sandwiches, this bread is a testament to the joys of home baking. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own fresh, flavorful loaf!