Name: Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Nothing beats the aroma of homemade Bread wafting through your kitchen; it’s simple, comforting, and always a big crowd-pleaser. This Bread recipe delivers a soft, golden loaf that strikes just the right balance between a tender crumb and a hearty crust. If you’re craving a slice of nostalgia or searching for a classic loaf to upgrade your sandwiches and breakfasts, this is the one to try. With a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you’ll soon be slicing into a warm, irresistible loaf that’s bound to make any meal more memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Bread recipe plays a starring role, working together to create flavor, texture, and that all-important rise. Don’t let the simplicity fool you—these classic pantry staples are the secret to baking a loaf that’s both easy and incredibly delicious.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of our Bread, providing structure and a chewy crumb.
Active dry yeast: Gives the loaf its airy lift and beautiful rise—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: Just enough to enhance flavor and balance the sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just a subtle hint of sweetness to every bite.
Warm water (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together—make sure it’s not too hot or cold.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a softer, more tender Bread loaf.

How to Make Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring the warm water into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, then the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until the mixture looks frothy and bubbly—this is a sure sign your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Bring the Dough Together

Next, drizzle in the olive oil, then add the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir everything together using a sturdy wooden spoon or your hands, working until a rough dough forms and most of the flour is incorporated. If the dough feels dry, you can add another tablespoon of water.

Step 3: Knead for Texture

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 8 to 10 minutes, using a rhythmic push-pull motion. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic feel—the more you knead, the chewier and fluffier your finished Bread will be.

Step 4: First Rise

Wipe out your bowl, then coat it lightly with olive oil. Place your dough ball inside, turning it once to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and set the bowl somewhere warm and draft-free. Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about an hour—a key moment for fluffy Bread.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Once it’s risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and nestle it into a greased 9×5-inch pan. Cover again and let it rise for about another 30 minutes, so it puffs up just over the rim of the pan.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Bread for 25 to 30 minutes—your kitchen will start to smell amazing! The loaf is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let your freshly baked Bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and makes slicing easier. When fully cooled, carve yourself a thick, satisfying slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Bread

Garnishes

A finishing touch can elevate your Bread from everyday to extraordinary. Brushing the top with melted butter right after baking yields a tender, glossy crust, while a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh herbs adds a gourmet twist.

Side Dishes

Bread is a natural companion for soups, stews, or crisp salads. Try serving your homemade slices with a rich tomato soup, creamy scrambled eggs, or alongside a harvest bowl of roasted veggies. It’s the ideal canvas for everything from sweet jams to savory dips.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, slice your Bread thick and present it in a rustic basket lined with a colorful cloth. You can also cube it for homemade croutons, make elegant tea sandwiches, or toast slices and serve with an assortment of spreads and cheeses for a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Bread at its best by storing cooled leftovers in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer a softer crust, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap before sealing.

Freezing

Bread freezes beautifully. Simply cool the loaf completely, slice if desired, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months—perfect for busy days or meal prepping ahead!

Reheating

To refresh Bread, thaw slices or the whole loaf at room temperature, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For single slices, a quick toast adds back that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier, slightly more dense Bread. It adds extra nutrition and a lovely nutty flavor.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising, it could be that the yeast is inactive or your kitchen is too cold. Ensure your water is warm but not hot and always check your yeast’s expiration date before starting.

How do I know when my Bread is done baking?

A golden brown crust and a hollow sound when you tap the bottom of the loaf are your best indicators. If you have a thermometer, the inside should read around 190°F (88°C).

Can I add herbs or cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or even roasted garlic can be mixed into the dough after the first rise for a deliciously customized Bread.

Why is my crust so hard?

A thick, tough crust may mean the bread was over-baked or not covered during storage. Try brushing the top with melted butter after baking for a softer, more tender crust.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Bread is pure comfort and joy in every bite—it’s truly one of life’s simple pleasures. If you’ve never tried baking your own loaf, now’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and give it a go. I promise, you’ll be hooked from the very first slice!

Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes rising time)
Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make a delicious homemade bread with this easy recipe. This classic sandwich bread is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Combine warm water and sugar in a bowl. Add yeast, let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Mix in olive oil, flour, and salt. Knead for 8-10 minutes.
Rise the Dough: Place dough in an oiled bowl, let it rise for 1 hour until doubled.
Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Shape dough into a loaf, let rise in a pan for 30 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
Cool and Serve: Cool on a wire rack before slicing.