Created on November 20th, 2025 at 01:40 pm
Simple Homemade Bread Anyone Can Make
Homemade bread transforms simple ingredients into a warm, inviting loaf that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The golden crust, slightly crackled and rustic, gives way to a soft, pillowy interior. Each slice showcases a delicate crumb that springs back gently under pressure, inviting a smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Crafting your own bread allows for personal touches, such as adding herbs or seeds, enhancing not only the flavor but also the visual appeal. This process is both satisfying and practical, offering a lovely, fresh alternative to store-bought options.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade bread recipe brings together simplicity and satisfaction in an accessible way. It yields a loaf that is soft and fluffy inside, with a crust that is invitingly crunchy. The allure of homemade bread is undeniable; the aroma while it’s baking creates an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. With minimal ingredients, you have the freedom to experiment and customize your bread to your liking. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or let it cool and ease into a lovely slice the next day, perfect for sandwiches or toast. Each bite offers a touch of nostalgia and a reminder of the beauty found in homemade creations.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Ingredients List
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (optional: for added flavor)
- Optional: your choice of herbs or seeds for flavor
Kitchen Tools
This recipe ensures that you don’t need a multitude of gadgets. Basic tools keep the process straightforward and enjoyable.
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
- Loaf pan (optional)
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil (if using) to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. It will be sticky but should hold its shape.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 8 to 10 minutes, incorporating more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should feel slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The dough should feel light and airy.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan, or shape it into a free-form round and place it on a baking sheet.
- Cover the dough again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until it has puffed up noticeably. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
- Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Pro Tips
- Use a kitchen thermometer to check your water temperature; it should be just warm, not hot.
- Experiment with different flours like whole wheat or rye for varied flavors and textures.
- For a crispy crust, place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
- Wrap leftover bread in a clean towel to keep it fresh, or slice and freeze for later enjoyability.
Homemade Bread, Made Simple
This recipe highlights how easy it is to create a comforting loaf that enhances any meal. The aroma of freshly baked bread can brighten any day, while its flavor offers endless versatility. Enjoy this homemade treasure warm from the oven, and appreciate how simple ingredients can produce something so comforting. This dish proves that good bread can be an uncomplicated, rewarding experience.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Simple Homemade Bread Anyone Can Make
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature.
- 2.25 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (optional) For added flavor.
- Optional: your choice of herbs or seeds for flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil (if using) to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Shaping and Second Rise
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf.
- Place it into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a free-form round and place it on a baking sheet.
- Cover the dough again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
Baking
- Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Enjoyed this recipe? Leave a review!
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
