How to Make Bread at Home: Easy Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. Making bread from scratch may seem intimidating, but with this easy recipe, you’ll discover the joy and satisfaction of creating your own homemade bread.

From simple ingredients to the comforting process of kneading the dough, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve a delicious loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a smear of butter.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 1/2 cups of warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter (optional, for added richness)

Preparation

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1.1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

1.2. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water-sugar mixture, and gently stir. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbles appear on the surface. This indicates that the yeast is activated.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

2.1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

2.2. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well and add the olive oil or melted butter (if using).

2.3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

3.1. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough by pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand, then fold it back over itself.

3.2. Continue kneading for about 8-10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough becomes too sticky.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

4.1. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.

4.2. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Bread

5.1. Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it by pressing down with your fingers.

5.2. Shape the dough into a loaf or place it into a greased bread pan for a traditional loaf shape.

Step 6: Second Rise

6.1. Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

7.1. While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 8: Bake the Bread

8.1. If you’re baking a free-form loaf, place it on a baking sheet. For a bread pan, simply leave the dough in the pan.

8.2. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

9.1. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

9.2. Slice the bread and serve it fresh with your favorite spreads or toppings. Enjoy the satisfaction of your homemade bread!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve followed this easy bread recipe, you’ve unlocked the world of baking your own bread at home. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create delicious loaves that will impress your family and friends.

So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands into the dough, and embark on a delightful journey of homemade bread baking. Happy baking!