Homemade Bread Recipe
Making homemade bread is a rewarding and enjoyable process that fills your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced home baker, this simple recipe will guide you through creating a delicious loaf of bread with a crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make a classic loaf of homemade bread.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: For the best results, use high-quality flour. You can substitute whole wheat flour if you prefer a heartier bread.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water: The water should be warm to the touch, about 110°F (45°C). If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: This feeds the yeast and helps the dough rise.
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast: The yeast is the leavening agent that helps the dough rise.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness to the bread and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread and strengthens the dough.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon milk or an egg for brushing the top of the loaf for a shiny finish.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This process is called proofing, and it ensures that the yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour and the salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the melted butter. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, adding the remaining 1/2 cup of flour as needed, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step, mixing on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can do this by flattening the dough into a rectangle, then rolling it up tightly from one end to the other. Pinch the seams closed and place the loaf seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat the Oven: While the loaf is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: If desired, brush the top of the loaf with milk or beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade bread fresh with butter, or use it for sandwiches and toast. This basic recipe is versatile and can be customized with herbs, cheese, or nuts for added flavor. Happy baking!
