Homemade Bread Recipe

Bread is a staple in households worldwide, loved for its versatility and comforting aroma. While store-bought bread offers convenience, nothing compares to the satisfaction of baking your own loaf at home. This simple and straightforward recipe will transform your kitchen into a bakery, and you’ll wonder why you ever bought bread in the first place. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a loaf that is soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal.

Let’s dive into the art of bread-making, a tradition that’s as rewarding as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water (approximately 100–105°F/37–40°C)
• 4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Servings: Makes one large loaf or two medium-sized loaves.

1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the bread rise.

2. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. Use the heels of your hands to push the dough away, then fold it back over itself. Rotate the dough slightly with each push. The result should be a smooth, elastic dough.

4. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Transfer it back to the floured surface and shape it into your desired form. You can create a classic loaf, round boule, or even divide it into two smaller loaves.

6. Second Rise:
Place the shaped dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Bake the Bread:
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the inside sets properly and stays moist.

Once you experience the joy of homemade bread, you’ll find yourself experimenting with variations—from adding herbs and cheese to shaping dinner rolls. Baking bread isn’t just a skill; it’s a tradition that brings warmth and love to every meal. Enjoy every bite of your homemade masterpiece!