🍞 Classic Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1.25 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should bounce back when poked.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until the dough rises about 1 inch above the pan rim.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread!
👨🍳 Chef’s Pro Tip
For an extra crispy crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of your oven while baking. The steam creates a beautiful artisan-style crust. Also, resist the urge to slice the bread while it’s still hot—letting it cool allows the interior structure to set properly!
Nutrition Facts (per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 8% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sodium | 390mg | 17% |
Recipe Variations
Replace 2 cups of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Add 2 tbsp honey and increase water by 2 tbsp. The bread will be denser and more nutritious with a nuttier flavor.
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar to help with texture. The rise time may be slightly shorter. Texture will be more delicate.
Add 2 tbsp dried Italian herbs, 2 tsp garlic powder, and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese to the dough. Perfect for serving with pasta dishes or as garlic toast!
Storage & Leftovers
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Not recommended, as it dries out the bread faster.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Revive Stale Bread: Sprinkle with water and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
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Perfect Pairings
🍷 Beverage: This bread pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red wine, fresh apple cider, or a warm cup of soup.
🧈 Toppings: Try with homemade butter, olive oil & balsamic, avocado toast, or your favorite jam!
