Homemade bread is one of those comforting staples that instantly transforms a meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast, a school lunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this economical bread recipe has you covered. With simple pantry staples and no special tools required, you’ll bake a soft, fluffy loaf that tastes far better than store-bought versions—and at a fraction of the cost.
This recipe is ideal for meal prepping. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and budget-conscious. It uses active dry yeast and common ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Let’s walk through each step of this delicious homemade bread recipe so you can master it like a pro.
Ingredients for Economical Homemade Bread
Main Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt (approximately 1 small coffee spoon)
- 1½ cups (360 ml) of warm milk
- 3½ cups (440 g) of all-purpose or wheat flour (no baking powder)
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 small packet (10 g or about 2½ teaspoons) of active dry yeast
Step-by-Step Preparation
Activating the Yeast
Start by warming your milk—make sure it’s warm, not hot (around 100–110°F or 38–43°C). Pour it into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes, until the yeast begins to bubble. This is a sign that the yeast is alive and ready to go.
Mixing the Dough
Once the yeast is active, add the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and salt to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula until well combined. This mixture will be wet and slightly lumpy, but it’s a good base for the flour to be added.
Gradually sift in the flour, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. As the dough becomes thicker, you may need to use your hands or a dough hook on a stand mixer to knead it into a smooth, elastic consistency.
Proofing the Dough
Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with a little oil. Place the dough inside and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
If your kitchen is cold, place the loaf inside your (turned-off) oven with the light on for warmth. The dough should be airy and soft to the touch when ready.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the center rack and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp when done.
To check doneness, tap the loaf gently—if it sounds hollow, it’s baked through.
Cooling and Serving
Remove the bread from the oven and let it sit in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, carefully unmold it onto a wire rack to cool fully. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and ensures the crust stays firm.
Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, or use it as a base for sandwiches and toast.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread Every Time
- Use room-temperature ingredients. Cold eggs or milk can slow down the yeast.
- Measure flour accurately. Too much flour leads to dense bread. Spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it with a knife.
- Don’t skip the rising step. It’s essential for a light, airy texture.
- Grease your pan well. This helps with easy removal and keeps the crust crispy.
- Add-ins are welcome. Feel free to mix in herbs, seeds, or grated cheese for variety.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This bread stays fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container or bread box. For longer storage:
- Refrigerate: Wrap the bread in foil or plastic wrap; it will keep for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Slice and place parchment between each slice before freezing. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Toast slices directly from frozen for quick breakfasts.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
Each slice of this bread is lower in preservatives and additives compared to store-bought alternatives. It’s rich in protein from the eggs and provides energy-boosting carbs for busy mornings.
Try serving it with:
- A fried egg and avocado for a hearty breakfast
- Natural peanut butter and banana slices
- Cream cheese and smoked salmon
- Homemade jam or honey for a sweet treat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes. If you use instant yeast, you can skip the activation step. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients and proceed as usual.
Can I substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk will work. Just ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
There are a few possible reasons:
- Your yeast may be expired or inactive.
- The milk may have been too hot and killed the yeast.
- The dough wasn’t left to rise in a warm enough environment.
Can I make this bread without eggs?
You can try using an egg substitute like unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a commercial egg replacer. However, the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when my bread is fully baked?
The top should be golden brown, and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped. You can also insert a skewer—it should come out clean with no dough sticking.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade bread doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, this economical recipe helps you create soft, delicious bread that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s ideal for meal prep, healthier than store-bought, and can be customized to your liking.
Whether you’re making breakfast for the week, preparing snacks for the kids, or just enjoying a slice with tea, this homemade bread is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.