Homemade Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as the smell of freshly baked bread drifting through the house. Homemade bread is wholesome, simple, and surprisingly easy to make with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned cook, this recipe will guide you through creating a golden, crusty loaf with a soft, pillowy center.

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (around 110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 teaspoons salt

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently, then let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes. When the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly, it’s ready to use. This step ensures your bread will rise properly and have that wonderful airy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the olive oil (or melted butter) and salt to the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to form. The dough should be soft but not overly sticky.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes by hand (or 5–6 minutes if using a stand mixer with a dough hook). The dough is ready when it feels elastic and springs back when pressed. Kneading develops gluten, which gives bread its structure and chewiness.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1–2 hours. During this time, the yeast works its magic, and the dough should double in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the risen dough to release air. Turn it out, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch bread pan (or form it into a rustic round loaf on a baking sheet). Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes until it puffs up nicely.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. For a shinier crust, brush the top with melted butter right after baking.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This allows the inside to set properly and prevents it from becoming gummy.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh homemade bread is delicious on its own with a smear of butter, but it also makes the perfect base for sandwiches, toast, or even garlic bread. It pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, and hearty casseroles.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can add herbs, seeds, cheese, or even swirl in cinnamon and sugar for a sweet variation. Once you’ve mastered the basics, the possibilities are endless.

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking bread from scratch. The process may take a little time, but the reward of slicing into a warm, golden loaf you created with your own hands is unmatched. Homemade bread brings comfort to the kitchen and joy to the table—one slice at a time.