What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s something magical about baking bread at home, and this recipe makes it easy and rewarding. You’ll love the warm, fresh smell filling your kitchen and the satisfaction of slicing into a loaf you made yourself.
- Simple ingredients – Just a few pantry staples come together to create something delicious.
- No fancy tools needed – A bowl, your hands, and a little patience are all it takes.
- Endless variations – Once you master the basics, you can add herbs, cheese, or even sweet twists.
Recipe
Baking homemade bread is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This simple recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh with butter.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes:
- For a crispier crust, brush the loaf with water before baking.
- Store bread in an airtight container or freeze for longer preservation.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Wire rack
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Nutrition
Homemade bread is a nutritious option that provides essential carbohydrates and some protein. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
What To Serve With It
There’s nothing like warm homemade bread, and I love pairing it with classic combos like butter and jam or a hearty soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with whipped honey and goat cheese for a sweet-savory twist. Whether you stick to tradition or get creative, the right pairing can turn your bread into a meal to remember.
Classic Pairings
Few things top the cozy comfort of fresh bread, and I love pairing it with classic staples that make every bite even better. A thick slab of butter melting into warm slices is hard to beat, or you can’t go wrong with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. I always reach for a chunk of sharp cheddar or creamy brie—the flavors just sing together. For something savory, dipping bread into homemade soup or stew feels like a hug in a bowl. And let’s not forget jam or honey for a sweet touch—pure joy on a plate!
Creative Combinations
When I’m feeling adventurous, I love pairing fresh bread with unexpected flavors that surprise and delight. One of my go-to moves is slathering warm slices with tangy goat cheese, drizzling honey, and sprinkling crushed pistachios for a sweet-savory twist. Another favorite is topping bread with creamy avocado, smoked salmon, and a squeeze of lemon for a brunch-worthy treat. Sometimes, I’ll dip crusty pieces into whipped ricotta mixed with roasted garlic and herbs—it’s heavenly! For dessert, I’ll toast bread, spread Nutella, and add banana slices. Each combo feels like a little adventure, turning homemade bread into something extraordinary.
