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Easy Homemade Bread

This Easy Homemade Bread recipe offers a simple solution for warm, fluffy bread that’s perfect for toast, sandwiches, or just enjoying with butter.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast That's one packet in most stores!
  • 1 ½ cups warm water Test the warmth; it should feel cozy but not burn.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Adds sweetness to the dough.
  • 1 tablespoon salt Enhances the flavor.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Plus extra for dusting.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Optional, but adds a nice touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets foamy and bubbly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the middle, pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into that well, and mix until a dough starts to form.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Rising
  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size, usually about 1-2 hours.
  2. Once doubled, punch the dough down and shape it into a loaf. Allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes in a greased loaf pan.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your loaf for about 30-35 minutes, until it sounds hollow when tapped.
  2. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice while warm.

Notes

To create a crustier crust, place a baking dish with water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking. If your dough is too dry, add a splash of water; if too wet, sprinkle some more flour.