Easy Homemade Bread

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Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen! This Easy Homemade Bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a soft, fluffy loaf with a crisp, golden crust. It’s ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a smear of butter. Simple yet satisfying, this recipe is a must-have for your baking collection.

Ingredients (For 1 Loaf):

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
  • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
  1. Mix the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  • Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture and oil.
  • Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
  1. Knead the Dough:
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  • Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
  1. First Rise:
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  1. Shape the Dough:
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
  • Turn it out onto a floured surface, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  1. Second Rise:
  • Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until it has puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  1. Bake the Bread:
  • Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • If the top browns too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  1. Cool and Serve:
  • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  • Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success:

  • Water temperature: Ensure the water is warm (about 110°F/43°C) but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
  • Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure. The dough should feel smooth and slightly elastic after kneading.
  • Let it rise: Give the dough enough time to rise, especially during the first rise. This helps develop flavor and texture.

Recommendation:

This Easy Homemade Bread pairs perfectly with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast. It’s also great for sandwiches, grilled cheese, or serving alongside soups and stews. For a variation, try adding a handful of seeds, herbs, or grated cheese to the dough before shaping! Enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh, homemade bread.

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