There’s something truly special about baking bread at home. The process, from mixing and kneading to the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen, is both soothing and rewarding. Homemade bread is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought varieties, with unmatched texture and taste. This simple bread recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal equipment. Whether you’re looking to make a delicious sandwich, or toast, or enjoy a slice with butter, this homemade bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (more for kneading)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk (room temperature)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and milk.
- Mix with a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add the remaining flour until it is manageable.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again in a warm place for about 30-60 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve:
- 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 before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade bread with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite meals!
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