Quick One-Hour Bread
Fresh, homemade bread in under an hour, with a crisp crust and soft interior.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (optional, for added richness)
For Dusting
- flour (optional for dusting)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the warm water. If using, add the olive oil at this stage. Mix until a rough dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it and let it rest in a warm spot for about 20 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) while the dough is resting.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use room temperature water to activate the yeast; avoid over-kneading; add flavors like herbs or cheese as desired. This bread can be sliced and frozen for later.