Short description

I’ve created an easy homemade bread recipe that delivers a warm, tender loaf with a crisp crust, using minimal ingredients and effort. It’s perfect for when I crave freshly baked bread without making a big fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this bread because it’s incredibly simple yet satisfying. The dough comes together quickly—no kneading—and it bakes into a loaf that’s soft on the inside with a golden crust. Every time I make it, the aroma fills the house and the loaf disappears fast.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • all-purpose flour

  • active dry yeast

  • warm water

  • sugar or honey

  • salt

  • olive oil or melted butter (optional, for brushing)

directions

  1. I start by dissolving sugar (or honey) into warm water (about 110°F/43°C), then sprinkle yeast on top. I let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  2. I whisk together flour and salt in a mixing bowl.

  3. Once the yeast is foamy, I stir it into the flour, adding a splash of olive oil or melted butter if I want extra richness. I mix until a shaggy dough forms.

  4. I turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and give it a few folds—just enough to shape it into a round loaf.

  5. I place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes, until puffy.

  6. I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C).

  7. I slash the top with a sharp knife and optionally brush it with olive oil or butter for shine.

  8. I bake for 20–25 minutes until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

  9. I let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to get a clean crumb.

Servings and timing

I typically bake a small loaf that yields 8–10 slices—great for a small family or week’s worth of sandwiches.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Rise time: 30 minutes

  • Bake time: 20–25 minutes
    Total time: approximately 1 hour

Variations

  • Herb-flecked loaf: Stir in chopped rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.

  • Cheesy loaf: Incorporate shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the dough before the final rise.

  • Whole wheat version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat for nuttier flavor and added fiber.

  • Seeded crust: Brush with water and sprinkle poppy, sesame, or sunflower seeds before baking.

  • Garlic bread upgrade: Spread garlic butter on the crust right after it comes out of the oven.

storage/reheating

I store leftover bread in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To revive a slightly stale loaf, I toast or reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes—it brings back freshness and aroma beautifully.

FAQs

1. Do I really need to let the dough rise?

Yes—letting it rise gives the loaf its airy texture. I aim for about 30 minutes in a warm spot until the dough doubles in size.

2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Absolutely. I just mix it straight into the dry ingredients and skip the proofing step. The loaf rises similarly.

3. What if I don’t have a kitchen towel to cover the dough?

I use a large plate or lightly oiled plastic wrap—just enough to keep the surface from drying out during rising.

4. Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes—if I use a loaf pan, the dough holds its shape and bakes into a taller, sandwich-style loaf. I may bake it a few minutes longer.

5. Is it okay to use whole wheat flour only?

I can, but the loaf may be denser. I often combine half whole wheat with half all-purpose for a lighter, nuttier loaf.

Conclusion

This easy homemade bread recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, I can enjoy fresh-baked bread any day. It’s perfect for toast, sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or just eating warm with a bit of butter.

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Easy Homemade Bread

Easy Homemade Bread

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This easy homemade bread recipe delivers a warm, tender loaf with a crisp crust, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for fresh-baked bread without the fuss.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8–10 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Olive oil or melted butter (optional, for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Start by dissolving sugar (or honey) into warm water, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk together flour and salt in a mixing bowl.
  3. Once the yeast is foamy, stir it into the flour mixture. Add a splash of olive oil or melted butter if desired. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and fold it a few times to shape it into a round loaf.
  5. Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes, until puffy.
  6. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  7. Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife and optionally brush with olive oil or butter for shine.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Let the loaf cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure a clean crumb.

Notes

  • Store leftover bread in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • To revive slightly stale bread, toast or reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
  • For added flavor, try stirring in chopped rosemary, thyme, or shredded cheese before the final rise.
  • To make garlic bread, spread garlic butter on the crust right after baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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