Description
This homemade bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches or enjoying fresh with butter. Using simple pantry staples like yeast, flour, and honey, this bread comes together easily and is an excellent introduction to baking bread at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (105–115 degrees Fahrenheit) (474g)
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (85g honey or 50g sugar)
- 2 tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable) (30 ml)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 to 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour (500g-688g)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with the active dry yeast and honey or sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the dough: Add the salt, oil, and 4 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until the dough starts to come together. Gradually add additional flour, half a cup at a time, until the dough is soft but not sticky and holds its shape.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan or shape as desired on a baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until it has puffed up noticeably.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing to allow the crumb to set properly.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature is between 105-115°F to activate yeast without killing it.
- Honey can be substituted with sugar, but will affect the flavor slightly.
- Adjust flour quantity based on humidity and flour type; dough should be soft but manageable.
- For a crispier crust, place a small pan of water in the oven to create steam.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container or freeze to maintain freshness.
Keywords: homemade bread, easy bread recipe, yeast bread, homemade loaf, baking bread