Description
This easy bread recipe is perfect for beginner bakers! Learn how to make a simple and delicious homemade loaf with minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions. Enjoy the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (105-115°F or 40-46°C)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar (or honey, if using) in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the salt and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment. Mixing by hand is just as effective. The dough will be sticky, which is normal at this stage.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour at a time.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has almost doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure your water is between 105-115°F (40-46°C) to activate the yeast properly.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Over-kneading can result in tough bread. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Warm Environment: Provide a warm, draft-free environment for the dough to rise.
- Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bread recipe, easy bread recipe, homemade bread, simple bread recipe, baking, loaf, bread making, quick bread recipe