Basic Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 1 package active dry yeast
1/4 ounce
- 3 tablespoons plus 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2-1/4 cups warm water
110° to 115°
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 6-1/4 to 6-3/4 cups bread flour
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
Directions
- 1
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 1/2 teaspoon sugar in warm water; let stand until bubbles form on surface. Whisk together remaining 3 tablespoons sugar, salt and 3 cups flour. Stir oil into yeast mixture; pour into flour mixture and beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, to form a soft dough.
- 2
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 8-10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
- 3
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough in half. Shape each into a loaf. Place in 2 greased 9x5-in. loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, 1 to 1-1/2 hours.
- 4
Bake at 375° until loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped or has reached an internal temperature of 200°, 30-35 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.
Basic Homemade Bread
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About this Recipe
Craving the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen? This Basic Homemade Bread recipe offers a delightful entry into the world of home baking, perfect for beginners.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines as a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to master the art of bread making. It's designed to guide you to a deliciously golden brown loaf, proving that making bread from scratch doesn't have to be intimidating. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward approach, yielding satisfying results that taste far superior to anything store-bought.
What to Expect
Prepare for your kitchen to be enveloped in that inimitable homemade bread fragrance as this loaf bakes. You can expect a beautifully golden crust and a tender, soft interior that's perfect for slicing. This bread has a comforting, classic flavor profile, making it a versatile staple for any meal. It’s a rewarding experience that feels like a warm hug in every bite, delivering simple, unadulterated deliciousness.
Customization & Variations
This Basic Homemade Bread serves as a wonderfully versatile foundation. The recipe offers a range for the bread flour quantity (6-1/4 to 6-3/4 cups), allowing you to subtly adjust the dough's consistency based on your environment or desired crumb. While designed as a classic white loaf, it's perfect for enjoying in many ways—from a simple piece of toast slathered with butter to the ideal accompaniment for your favorite hearty soups and stews.
Serving & Context
This homemade bread is perfect for everyday enjoyment. Serve it as a comforting side to family dinners, use it as the base for your favorite sandwiches, or simply enjoy a warm slice with your morning coffee. Its comforting flavor makes it a welcome addition to any meal or snack.