Introduction: This soft and fluffy homemade bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a loaf of bread that is soft, light, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making sandwiches or enjoying it with a spread of butter, this bread will be the star of your meals.
Ingredients:
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir well.
Form the dough: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding in the sides and rolling it into a tight log shape.
Second rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has puffed up.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Description:
This bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and perfectly textured loaf. The secret lies in the simple ingredients and the patience during the rising process. The honey adds just a hint of sweetness, balancing the flavor and enhancing the bread’s natural richness. Whether you use it for sandwiches or toast, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Tips:
Don’t skip the yeast proofing: Ensuring the yeast is activated properly is key to a fluffy bread. The water should be warm but not hot.
Knead properly: Kneading the dough develops gluten, which is essential for a soft and airy texture.
Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking to prevent it from becoming dry.
Let it cool completely: While tempting, let the bread cool fully before slicing to prevent it from becoming too doughy inside.
Variations:
Whole Wheat Bread: Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, heartier loaf.
Garlic Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic into the dough for a flavorful twist.
Herb-infused Bread: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) into the dough for a fragrant, savory bread.
Corrections:
If the dough is too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of water until it comes together.
Make sure to not add too much flour during the kneading process; the dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your homemade, soft, and fluffy bread with your favorite spread, or use it to make delicious sandwiches!