Description
This homemade bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a slightly crisp crust. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or enjoying with butter, this recipe is simple and rewarding.
Ingredients
- 1 packet Active dry yeast
- 2 1/4 tsp (7g) Active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup hot water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 1/4 cups bread flour (divided)
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy. If yeast doesn’t foam, it might be expired.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine hot water, sugar, salt, and olive oil. Stir to dissolve. Add proofed yeast and mix.
- Gradually add 2 1/2 cups of flour and stir. Slowly add the remaining 3/4 cup flour until the dough is slightly sticky but pulls away from the bowl.
- Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch dough down and shape into a loaf, place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Herb Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for aromatic flavor.
- Garlic Bread: Mix minced garlic and Parmesan cheese into the dough or brush with garlic butter.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute some bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Sweet Bread: Add honey or maple syrup to the dough for sweetness.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
