If you’ve ever longed for the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, this Homemade Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft and fluffy inside with a gently crisp crust, it’s the kind of loaf that transforms simple meals into something extraordinary. Whether you’re slathering it with butter, dunking slices into steaming soup, or building your favorite sandwich, you’ll be amazed at how easy and utterly satisfying it is to make your own bread from scratch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Homemade Bread Recipe shine is its handful of simple, essential ingredients—each thoughtfully chosen to help you achieve that irresistible texture and flavor. Even if you’re new to baking, these familiar staples make it approachable, yet absolutely delicious.
- Active dry yeast: The rising power behind our bread—make sure it’s fresh for a beautifully airy loaf.
- Warm water (1/4 cup): Activates the yeast and helps it bloom for the perfect start.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 tsp + 1 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a delicate touch of sweetness to the dough.
- Hot water (1 cup): Helps dissolve the ingredients and gives the dough the right consistency.
- Kosher salt (1 1/2 tsp): Balances the flavor and enhances the overall taste.
- Olive oil (1/4 cup): Brings moisture, softness, and a subtle rich flavor to the loaf.
- Bread flour (3 1/4 cups, divided): The secret to chewy texture and satisfying structure—don’t substitute all-purpose if you can help it!
How to Make
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
Start by adding the warm water, a pinch of sugar, and the active dry yeast to a small bowl. Give it a gentle stir and then let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a frothy, bubbly surface—proof that your yeast is truly alive and ready to work its magic. If nothing happens, it might be time for a fresh yeast packet, but when it bubbles, you know beautiful bread is on its way!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the hot water, remaining sugar, kosher salt, and olive oil. Stir everything until dissolved, then pour in your proofed yeast. Next, start adding 2 1/2 cups of flour and stir to bring the ingredients together. Add the remaining 3/4 cup of flour slowly, just until the dough pulls away from the sides. It should be a little sticky, but never soupy—trust your instincts and let the dough tell you when it’s ready!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn your dough out onto a generously floured surface and begin kneading, folding, and stretching for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough becomes smooth, springy, and satisfyingly elastic as you work it. This step is the heart and soul of the Homemade Bread Recipe—kneading develops the gluten that gives your loaf its signature chewy crumb.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl and tuck your dough inside, rolling it gently so the surface gets coated. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and set aside for 1 to 2 hours. As the dough rises, it will double in volume—a magical transformation that’s always a joy to witness, and an essential step for a light, fluffy bread.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release excess air. Shape it into a loaf and nestle it into a greased 9×5-inch pan. Cover again and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes—this is the last rise, and it ensures that enviable bread-shop look when you pull it from the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When the dough has puffed up a final time, bake your loaf for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch as it turns golden brown, developing that irresistible crust. Tap the top; it should sound hollow. That’s your cue that the Homemade Bread Recipe has worked its magic! Let the loaf cool before slicing—if you can wait!
How to Serve
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a few fresh herb leaves, or even a dusting of grated Parmesan right after baking for extra flavor and a gourmet look. For a rustic finish, brush the loaf with a little melted butter once it’s out of the oven—it gives the crust a beautiful shine and even more flavor.
Side Dishes
This bread is a dreamy companion to soups and stews, perfect for soaking up every last drop. It makes any salad feel a bit more special, and it’s absolutely made for classic grilled cheese or a toast with your favorite spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the loaf into thick slices for picnic sandwiches, or tear the bread into rustic chunks for a gourmet bread basket at dinner parties. You can slice it thin, toast, and use as crostini with toppings like bruschetta or soft cheese. The Homemade Bread Recipe looks gorgeous on a wooden board, surrounded by butter, jams, or savory spreads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your bread fresh in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid the fridge, as it can dry out the loaf faster. If you need it to last longer, slice and freeze portions instead.
Freezing
To freeze, let your bread cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices—perfect for grabbing just what you need for a quick snack or meal down the line.
Reheating
Enjoy that just-baked warmth by popping slices into a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. They’ll come out toasty on the outside and pillowy inside, ready for butter or your favorite spread.
FAQs
Can I make this Homemade Bread Recipe with whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! Substitute some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, nuttier loaf. You may need a splash more water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, but it works beautifully.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
If your bread didn’t rise, the yeast may have been expired or the water either too hot or too cold. Make sure your yeast foams in the proofing stage, and keep the dough warm and cozy while it rises.
Can I add mix-ins like herbs or cheese?
Definitely! Try stirring in rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic touch. For an extra-special twist, add finely grated cheese or minced roasted garlic for extra flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the bread?
Let the loaf cool almost completely, then use a long, serrated bread knife, making gentle sawing motions. This prevents squishing and ensures even, beautiful slices.
Can I double the Homemade Bread Recipe?
Yes! Simply double each ingredient and divide the dough into two loaf pans. The rise and bake times may need a few extra minutes, but otherwise it works like a charm.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like enjoying a slice of bread baked with your own hands, and this Homemade Bread Recipe makes it possible for anyone. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, every loaf is a small triumph. So go ahead—bake a batch, share it with loved ones, and savor the best homemade bread you’ve ever tasted!
Print
Homemade Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2.5-3 hours
- Yield: 12-14 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
For Proofing the Yeast:
- 1 packet Active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 tsp granulated sugar
For Dough:
- 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. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine hot water, sugar, salt, and olive oil. Add proofed yeast and mix. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups of flour, then the remaining 3/4 cup until slightly sticky but pulls away from the bowl.
- Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Let Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch dough down, shape into a loaf, place in a greased 9×5-inch pan. Let rise for 30-45 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. 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: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
