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-out-of-the-oven smell and the pride of making it yourself.
- Simple ingredients: Just flour, water, yeast, and salt—no fancy tools or hard-to-find items.
- Soft, chewy texture: Perfect crust on the outside, fluffy and tender inside, just like bakery bread.
- Endless variations: Add herbs, cheese, or seeds to make it your own, or keep it classic for a timeless favorite.
Recipe
Intro
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. This simple homemade bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape loaf: Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until dough reaches the pan’s rim.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool: Remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, brush the loaf with water before baking.
- Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Damp towel
- Wire rack
Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1.5–2.5 hours
Cuisine
American
Serving
1 loaf (12 slices)
Nutrition
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a typical slice of homemade bread:
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
What To Serve With It
Fresh homemade bread pairs perfectly with creamy soups, like tomato or broccoli cheddar, for a cozy meal. I love spreading softened butter or savory options, like herbed cheese or garlic hummus, on warm slices for extra flavor. It’s a simple way to make every bite satisfying.
Creamy Soups
When I’m whipping up a creamy soup, I always reach for a homemade loaf of bread—there’s nothing quite like dipping a warm, crusty slice into a velvety bowl of potato or broccoli soup. The bread soaks up the rich flavors, adding depth to every bite. Whether it’s a classic tomato bisque or a comforting butternut squash soup, the combination feels hearty and satisfying. I love how the soft inside of the bread contrasts with its crunchier crust, making each spoonful more enjoyable. It’s a simple pairing, but it turns an ordinary meal into something special.
Savory Spreads
Homemade bread doesn’t just pair well with soups—it’s also the perfect canvas for savory spreads that take it to the next level. I love slathering warm slices with garlic herb butter, its richness melting into every crevice. For something tangy, whipped feta with lemon zest and olive oil adds a bright kick. If you’re craving bold flavors, try roasted red pepper hummus or a spicy harissa mayo. Even simple mashed avocado with a pinch of salt feels indulgent. These spreads turn fresh bread into a meal, and the best part? They’re quick to whip up, letting the bread shine.
