Homemade Bread Recipe
This easy homemade bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust. It’s perfect for beginners and only requires a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re making toast or sandwiches, this versatile bread is a household staple!
Ingredients
- 1 cup water, heated to 110°F (45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (one package) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup milk, heated to 110°F (45°C)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the heated water and yeast.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, heated milk, salt, remaining sugar, and 2 cups of flour.
- Mix the ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, half a cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air.
- Roll out the dough into a log shape and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pointers
- Soft Crust: For a softer crust, brush the top of the baked loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely before cutting to prevent it from becoming sticky or gummy.
Timing Breakdown
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Nutrition (Per Slice)
- Calories: 170
- Servings: 12 slices
With this simple recipe, you’ll have fresh, homemade bread in just a few hours. Enjoy the warm, comforting smell of freshly baked bread right from your kitchen!