Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
105-115 degrees
- 1 Tablespoons active dry yeast*
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 Tablespoons oil
canola or vegetable
- 4 - 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour*
Directions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer add the yeast, water and a pinch of the sugar or honey. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes until foaming and bubbly. (This is called “proofing” the yeast, to make sure it is active. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast is no good, and you need to start over with fresh yeast).
- 2
Add remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix to combine.
- 3
Add another cup of flour and mix to combine. With the mixer running add more flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be smooth and elastic, and slightly stick to a clean finger, but not be overly sticky. Add a little more flour, if needed.
- 4
Knead the dough: Mix the dough for 4-5 minutes on medium speed (or knead with your hands on a lightly floured surface, for 5-8 minutes).
- 5
First Rise: Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place* until doubled in size, about 1 ½ hours.
- 6
Spray two 9x5'' bread pans generously with cooking spray on all sides. (I also like to line the bottom of the pans with a small piece of parchment or wax paper, but this is optional.)
- 7
Punch the dough down well to remove air bubbles. Divide into two equal portions. Shape each ball into long logs and place into greased loaf pans.
- 8
Second rise: Spray two pieces of plastic wrap with cooking spray and lay them gently over the pans. Allow dough to rise again for about 45 minutes to one hour, or until risen about 1 inch above the loaf pans. Gently removing covering.
- 9
Bake: Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake bread for about 30-33 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Give the top of a loaf a gentle tap; it should sound hollow.
- 10
Invert the loaves onto a wire cooling rack. Brush the tops with butter and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- 11
Once cool, store in an airtight container or bag for 2-3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Homemade Bread
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About this Recipe
There's nothing quite like the aroma and warmth of freshly baked homemade bread filling your kitchen. This simple recipe brings that comforting experience within reach, allowing you to create a delicious loaf with familiar ingredients you likely already have on hand. It's the perfect way to bring a touch of hearth and home to any meal.
This homemade bread recipe works by combining key pantry staples to create a balanced flavor and texture. The active dry yeast, when activated with warm water, provides the lift, while honey or sugar adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning. The choice between all-purpose or bread flour allows you to customize the final crumb to your preference, ensuring a result you'll love.
Expect a beautifully golden-crusted loaf with a tender, inviting crumb. The slight sweetness from the honey or sugar complements the savory notes from the salt, creating a versatile bread that's delicious on its own or as an accompaniment. This recipe produces a generous yield, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. Imagine tearing into a slice, still warm from the oven, offering a truly satisfying experience.
Customization & Variations
- Sweetener Swap: Use honey for a distinct, richer flavor and golden hue, or opt for sugar for a more neutral sweetness.
- Flour Choice: All-purpose flour will yield a softer, more tender bread, while bread flour, with its higher protein content, will give you a chewier, more structured loaf.
- Oil Alternatives: Canola or vegetable oil provides moisture and tenderness, but you could experiment with a mild olive oil for a different flavor profile.
This homemade bread is perfect for family dinners, weekend brunches, or simply as a comforting snack. Serve it with a smear of butter, alongside a hearty soup, or use thick slices for an incredible sandwich base.