Introduction:
This cheapest bread recipe is a simple, no-frills approach to making fresh bread at home without breaking the bank. It requires only a handful of basic pantry ingredients, and the method is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners or anyone on a budget. You can enjoy homemade bread with minimal time and effort, and it’s versatile enough to be used for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to any meal.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour, if preferred)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions:
Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
If it doesn’t foam, the yeast might be expired, and you’ll need to try again with a fresh packet.
Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add it to the dry ingredients along with the oil or melted butter. Stir the mixture until it forms a rough dough.
Knead the dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also do this step using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
First rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Second rise:
Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Description:
This simple and budget-friendly bread is perfect for those who want homemade bread without spending much.
It has a soft, slightly chewy texture with a golden crust. You can make this bread quickly with pantry staples, and the best part is you can customize it easily by adding herbs, garlic, or even seeds to the dough for extra flavor.
Tips:
Use warm water:
Make sure the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Aim for about 110°F (45°C).
Knead well:
Proper kneading is essential for developing the gluten and giving the bread its soft texture.
Let it rise properly:
Don’t rush the rising process. The dough needs time to double in size to ensure the bread is light and fluffy.
Store properly:
If you have leftovers, store the bread in a plastic bag or bread box to keep it soft. It should last for about 2-3 days.
Variations:
Whole Wheat Version:
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, healthier loaf.
Herb Infused:
Add a tablespoon of dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) into the dough for a fragrant twist.
Garlic Bread:
Mix in minced garlic and a little parmesan cheese for a savory, garlic-infused bread.
Seeded Bread: Add sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or flaxseeds to the dough for added crunch and nutrition.
Corrections:
Flour Amount:
If the dough seems too sticky or too dry, you can adjust the flour slightly. Add a little more flour if it’s too sticky, or a splash of water if it’s too dry.
Yeast Activation:
If your yeast doesn’t foam or activate, it might be old or the water temperature may have been too hot or cold. Try again with new yeast and properly warm water.
Enjoy!
Now that you’ve made your own homemade bread, enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or as a base for your favorite sandwiches. It’s simple, affordable, and absolutely delicious!