Bread Recipe

Looking to bake your own bread at home? This bread recipe is simple yet rewarding, offering a delightful aroma and a crusty exterior that will impress your family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a warm, freshly baked loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or enjoying with butter. Let’s dive into the details and get you started on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes one large loaf, serving approximately 8 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 120 calories, 1.5g fat, 22g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard slice size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture, stirring gently.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
7. Place the loaf in a greased bread pan or on a baking sheet.
8. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rises.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, honey can replace sugar for natural sweetness, and water can be swapped for milk for a richer flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, and spreads. Serve it with butter, jam, or your favorite dip for a delightful snack or appetizer.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster to restore freshness.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not letting the dough rise enough can lead to dense bread.
• Using water that’s too hot can kill the yeast.
• Over-kneading can make the bread tough.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
• Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven baking.

Helpful Tips

• Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
• Experiment with adding herbs or spices for unique flavors.
• Keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out during rising.
• Use a thermometer to check dough temperature for optimal yeast activity.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast; just mix it directly with the flour without proofing it in water.

Why is my bread dense?

Dense bread can result from insufficient rising time or not enough yeast. Ensure your yeast is active and give the dough enough time to rise.

Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?

Absolutely! Adding seeds or nuts can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the dough after the first rise.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; it should read 190°F (88°C) internally.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but you may need to adjust the liquid and add a binding agent like xanthan gum.

Conclusion

Baking bread at home can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With this bread recipe, you’ll create a delicious loaf that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Enjoy your homemade bread fresh out of the oven or as part of a meal—it’s sure to be a hit!

Bread Recipe

A simple and delightful bread recipe that yields a warm, crusty loaf perfect for any meal.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Bread

Cuisine: Global

Keyword: bread, homemade bread, baking, comfort food

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil optional

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
• Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture, stirring gently.
• Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
• Place the loaf in a greased bread pan or on a baking sheet.
• Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rises.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1.5g | Fiber: 1g