Homemade bread is one of those timeless recipes that brings a sense of warmth and comfort to any kitchen. There’s something truly magical about baking bread from scratch: the way the dough rises, the aroma that fills your home, and the soft, fluffy texture of a fresh loaf. This recipe for easy homemade bread is straightforward and beginner-friendly, with simple ingredients and a step-by-step process. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this easy bread recipe will yield a delicious loaf every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients, the process, and some helpful tips to make this bread even more special.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 350 g wheat flour (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 g dry yeast
- 210 ml boiled but not hot water
- 30 g vegetable oil
- Additional flour for dusting
- Milk for brushing
- Butter for brushing
These ingredients form the backbone of the recipe, offering a perfect balance between flour, yeast, and fat, making the bread soft on the inside while developing a golden, crispy crust. The addition of vegetable oil in the dough provides tenderness, while the milk and butter used in the final brushing stage help create that irresistible shiny finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
The first step in making homemade bread is to prepare your dry ingredients. Sift 350 g of wheat flour into a large mixing bowl. Sifting flour is important because it helps aerate the flour, making it lighter and easier to mix with the other ingredients. This step will help ensure your bread dough has a light texture.
Once you have sifted the flour, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 5 g of dry yeast to the flour. The sugar acts as food for the yeast, helping it to activate and rise properly. The salt not only adds flavor but also helps regulate yeast growth. Mix the dry ingredients well with a spoon or whisk to ensure the yeast and salt are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
With your dry ingredients prepared, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Gradually pour in 210 ml of boiled but not hot water. The water should be warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula as you add the water. You should see the flour start to absorb the water, and the mixture will begin to come together.
Next, add 30 g of vegetable oil to the bowl. Vegetable oil contributes to the dough’s elasticity and ensures the bread comes out soft. Continue stirring until the dough starts to form. You’ll notice that the dough might still be a bit shaggy at this point, but don’t worry—it will come together as you knead it.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface to begin kneading. Kneading is the process of working the dough by folding, pressing, and stretching it to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands and the surface to make it easier to handle. The goal is to create a dough that’s smooth but not overly sticky.
If you’re new to kneading, here’s a simple method: Start by pressing the dough with the palms of your hands, fold it over, and press again. Rotate the dough a quarter turn each time. Continue this process until the dough feels elastic and no longer sticky. If you gently stretch the dough and it doesn’t tear, it’s ready for the next step.
Step 4: First Rise
Once you’ve kneaded the dough, it’s time to let it rise. Lightly brush the dough with a little vegetable oil to prevent it from drying out. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with cling film or a clean towel. Put the bowl in a warm place, such as near a heater or in a draft-free corner of your kitchen. Let the dough rise for about 15 minutes. During this time, the yeast will work its magic, causing the dough to expand and become light and airy.
The dough should roughly double in size during this first rise. If it hasn’t risen enough after 15 minutes, allow it to rest for a bit longer until it has expanded enough.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into the desired form. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently press it down to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough by rolling or folding it to your desired size. Whether you prefer a round loaf, a classic baguette shape, or individual rolls, this is the step where you get to decide.
Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into your preferred shape or divide it into individual portions for smaller rolls. This shaping step is important, as it will help the bread rise evenly in the oven and ensure an even bake.
Step 6: Second Rise
Once you’ve shaped the dough, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the dough loosely with a cloth to prevent it from drying out. Allow the dough to rise for another 10 minutes. This second rise, though shorter than the first, is essential for creating a light and fluffy loaf. During this time, the dough will continue to rise, developing the texture that makes homemade bread so delightful.
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so that it’s ready when the dough is done rising.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
As the dough completes its second rise, it’s time to prepare it for baking. Brush the top of the dough with milk and melted butter. This step will give the bread a lovely golden-brown color and a soft, shiny finish. The milk will add richness, while the butter helps to create a soft, tender crust.
Step 8: Bake
Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the shape of your dough, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
You can check for doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done. If you’re baking individual rolls, the baking time may be a bit shorter, so check them a few minutes earlier.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Cooling is important, as it allows the bread to finish setting and prevents the inside from becoming too dense. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it to allow the steam to escape.
Now that your homemade bread is ready, it’s time to enjoy it. Whether you prefer it with a simple pat of butter, as part of a sandwich, or alongside a bowl of soup, this homemade bread is versatile and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This easy homemade bread is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
- As a side dish: Serve it warm with soups, stews, or salads. It’s a perfect addition to any meal.
- For sandwiches: Slice it into thick pieces and use it to make hearty sandwiches. Whether it’s a classic BLT or a veggie-filled sub, this bread makes the perfect base.
- As a snack: Enjoy a slice of bread with butter, jam, or your favorite spread for a quick and satisfying snack.
- For breakfast: Serve it toasted with your favorite toppings like honey, peanut butter, or cream cheese.
Cooking Tips
- Use Warm Water: When adding water to activate the yeast, make sure it’s warm, not hot. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing your bread from rising. Aim for a temperature of about 100-110°F (37-43°C).
- Kneading Is Key: Kneading helps develop the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness. Be sure to knead for at least 5-7 minutes for the best results.
- Steam for a Crusty Finish: If you prefer a crustier bread, you can create steam in the oven by placing a small pan of water at the bottom of the oven as the bread bakes. This helps the bread develop a thicker, crunchier crust.
Nutritional Benefits
Homemade bread made with wheat flour offers several nutritional benefits:
- Wheat Flour: A great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Yeast: Provides B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and metabolism.
- Vegetable Oil: Adds healthy fats that support heart health.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean towel at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help it stay fresh without becoming stale.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it. To thaw, simply remove the slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular wheat flour. However, whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to add a bit more water to the dough to achieve the right consistency. Whole wheat flour also tends to produce denser bread, so be sure to knead the dough well to help it rise.
2. What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, the water you added may have been too hot or the yeast may be expired. Ensure the water is warm (not hot) and check the expiration date on your yeast. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer environment, such as near a heater, to encourage rising.
3. Can I make this bread without yeast?
This particular recipe requires yeast for rising, as it helps the dough expand and become light and airy. If you’re looking for a yeast-free alternative, you can try making soda bread or other quick bread recipes that use baking soda or baking powder as leavening agents.
4. How can I make the crust extra crispy?
For an extra crispy crust, you can place a small pan of water in the oven while baking. The steam created will help the bread develop a thick, crispy crust. Another method is to brush the dough with more butter before baking for added crispness.
5. Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to make this dough. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients, and select the dough cycle. After the dough has risen, shape it and bake it as directed.
Conclusion
This easy homemade bread recipe is a perfect starting point for anyone looking to make their own bread from scratch. With a golden, soft loaf, you can enjoy it in a variety of ways—whether as a simple snack, the base for sandwiches, or served alongside your favorite meals. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade bread! The steps are simple and achievable for bakers of all levels, and the results are a comforting, warm loaf that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the process, and savor the deliciousness of homemade bread!