There is something truly magical about pulling a warm loaf fresh from the oven, especially when it’s made with love and simple ingredients you already have at home. This Simple Homemade Bread Recipe is the perfect way to experience that joy. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of patience, you’ll create a soft, golden, and utterly delicious loaf that fills your kitchen with the best kind of aroma and your heart with pride. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe makes bread making approachable, satisfying, and endlessly rewarding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a few simple but essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and crust. From the yeast that helps the dough rise to the olive oil that adds richness and tenderness, every component counts.
- All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups): The foundation of your bread, providing structure and stability to the dough.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet, 2 1/4 teaspoons): This little powerhouse creates the airy, fluffy texture by making the dough rise.
- Warm water (1 1/4 cups, about 110 degrees F): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour, bringing everything together.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast and gives the bread a subtle, pleasant sweetness.
- Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Balances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and tenderness while contributing a lovely aroma.
How to Make Simple Homemade Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. This is the magical moment where the yeast comes to life, bubbling up and forming foam. It typically takes 5 to 10 minutes, and this foam is your sign that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Combine ingredients and form dough
Add the olive oil and salt to your foamy yeast mixture—that olive oil will keep your bread moist and tender. Gradually stir in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms, perfect for kneading.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. This step builds gluten, which creates that lovely chewy texture in your bread. You’ll know you’re done kneading when the dough is smooth and elastic, springing back when you press it gently.
Step 4: First rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it to coat the top in a bit of oil to prevent drying. Cover with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm spot for about one hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where patience pays off, as the dough transforms before your eyes.
Step 5: Shape and second rise
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30 to 40 minutes, just until it peeks over the edge of the pan.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Slide your bread in, baking for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. Once out of the oven, let it cool on a wire rack before slicing so the crumb sets beautifully.
How to Serve Simple Homemade Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh loaf from this Simple Homemade Bread Recipe is perfect just as it is, but if you want to elevate it, try brushing the crust with melted butter right after baking for a soft, shiny finish. Sprinkling some coarse sea salt or garlic herb seasoning can add a delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This bread shines alongside soups, stews, and hearty salads. Think comforting tomato basil soup, a creamy clam chowder, or a fresh garden salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The versatility of homemade bread makes it a star with countless meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or special occasions, slice the bread thick and serve with a board of cheeses, olives, and artisanal jams. You can also toast slices and top them with smashed avocado, roasted tomatoes, or your favorite bruschetta toppings for a casual yet elegant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to three days, perfect for sandwiches or toasting.
Freezing
If you want to keep your bread longer, slice it before freezing. Place the slices in a freezer bag with the air pressed out to avoid freezer burn. This Simple Homemade Bread Recipe freezes beautifully and can last for several months.
Reheating
To revive frozen or leftover bread, pop slices directly into a toaster or warm the whole loaf in a 350 degrees F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Brushing with a little butter before warming enhances softness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more rustic loaf. Just keep in mind the texture may be slightly denser.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?
If the yeast bubbles up and forms a foamy layer when mixed with warm water and sugar, it’s alive and ready. If nothing happens after 10 minutes, it’s best to get fresh yeast to ensure your bread rises properly.
Why did my bread not rise?
Common reasons include using water that’s too hot or too cold, expired yeast, or not giving the dough enough time in a warm environment. Make sure the water is just warm—around 110 degrees F—and be patient with your dough.
Can I make this bread without a loaf pan?
Yes! Shape the dough into a round boule and bake it on a baking sheet or a preheated baking stone for a rustic free-form loaf. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.
What can I do if my crust is too hard?
Try brushing the bread with melted butter right after baking for a softer crust. Covering the bread with a clean towel while it cools can also help keep moisture in.
Final Thoughts
Baking bread at home is such a rewarding experience, and this Simple Homemade Bread Recipe makes the process easy, fun, and utterly delicious. I hope you enjoy the warmth, aroma, and comforting taste of this loaf as much as I do. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite ritual in your kitchen!
Print
Simple Homemade Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and straightforward recipe for homemade bread that yields a soft, golden brown loaf perfect for beginners. Made with basic ingredients and baked to perfection, this bread is great for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110 degrees F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add Oil and Salt: Stir in the olive oil and salt into the yeast mixture to combine the flavors.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the flour one cup at a time, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the top. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf shape.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9 by 5 inch loaf pan. Cover and allow it to rise again for 30 to 40 minutes, until it rises slightly above the rim of the pan.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the best texture.
Notes
- For a softer crust, brush the top of the bread with melted butter after baking.
- You can substitute half of the all purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier and more nutritious loaf.
- Store the bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
