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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.

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