Easy Homemade Bread

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Easy Homemade Bread

Description

This Easy Homemade Bread is a beginner-friendly, no-fuss recipe that delivers bakery-style results at home. With a crisp golden crust and a soft, airy interior, it’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or serving warm with butter. No special equipment required—just simple pantry ingredients and a little patience.

 Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1â…“ cups (320 ml) warm water (about 40°C / 105°F)

  • 4¾ cups (570 g) plain (all-purpose) flour

 Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast

    • In a large bowl, mix warm water and dry yeast.

    • Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  2. Mix the Dough

    • Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture.

    • Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

  3. Knead

    • Transfer dough to a floured surface.

    • Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. First Rise

    • Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.

    • Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

  5. Shape the Bread

    • Punch down dough and divide into 2–3 loaves.

    • Shape into ovals or logs and place on a lined baking tray.

  6. Second Rise

    • Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

  7. Bake

    • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

    • Lightly slash the tops with a sharp knife.

    • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

  8. Cool

    • Let cool slightly before slicing.

 Tips for Best Results

  • Use warm, not hot water—hot water can kill the yeast.

  • For extra crustiness, place a small oven-safe bowl of water in the oven while baking.

  • Brush with olive oil or sprinkle flour on top before baking for a rustic look.

  • Want softer crust? Cover the bread with a clean towel while cooling.

 Servings

  • Makes 2–3 loaves

  • Approximately 10–12 slices per loaf

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approx.)

  • Calories: 160

  • Carbohydrates: 28 g

  • Protein: 5 g

  • Fat: 3 g

  • Fiber: 1 g
    (Values may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.)

Benefits

  • Homemade and preservative-free

  • Budget-friendly

  • Customizable (add herbs, garlic, seeds, or whole wheat flour)

  • Great source of energy and comfort food

 Q & A

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
A: Yes! Use the same amount and skip the activation step—mix directly with flour.

Q: Can I freeze this bread?
A: Absolutely. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make it whole wheat?
A: Yes—replace up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour for best texture.

Q: Why didn’t my dough rise?
A: Most likely the water was too hot or the yeast was expired.

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