There’s something truly magical about the smell of homemade bread wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Baking bread is not just a task; it’s a journey filled with warmth and comfort. This simple bread recipe is perfect for anyone who’s new to baking or just looking for a straightforward way to create something delicious. Trust me, you don’t need to be a master baker to whip up a loaf that will make your home feel cozy and inviting. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll transform simple flour, water, and yeast into a beautiful, golden loaf that you can be proud of. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delightful bread-making adventure together!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking success! Here’s what you’ll need for this simple bread recipe:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C, not too hot to touch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
These simple ingredients come together beautifully, and they’re likely already in your pantry! Let’s make something wonderful!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
First things first! In a large bowl, mix together your warm water, sugar, and yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll want to watch for those little bubbles forming on the surface—that’s the yeast coming to life! This step is crucial because it ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add in the olive oil and salt, then start adding the flour gradually. I like to sprinkle in about a cup at a time, mixing it in with a wooden spoon until you see a dough starting to form. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and the dough is starting to come together. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rough at first; it will come together as we knead it!
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Time to get your hands a little messy! Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes, folding and pressing it until it’s smooth and elastic. If it gets too sticky, sprinkle just a bit more flour. This kneading process is so important—it helps develop the gluten, making your bread nice and chewy!
Step 4: First Rise
Once your dough is smooth, place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size, so find a cozy spot for it. While it’s rising, you can enjoy the anticipation of that lovely bread aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 5: Preparing to Bake
After the dough has had its first rise, it’s time to get your oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise helps to create that wonderful texture we all love.
Step 6: Baking the Bread
Now comes the best part! Once your dough has risen again, pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom gently. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. The smell will be incredible, and soon you’ll have a beautiful loaf to slice and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Getting the perfect loaf of bread is all about a few simple tricks! First, when kneading, don’t be afraid to really work the dough. It should feel smooth and elastic; if it’s still sticky, just sprinkle a bit more flour until it’s manageable. For the rising stages, the warmth of your kitchen is key! If it’s chilly, try placing the bowl in a turned-off oven with the light on to create a cozy environment. And when it comes to checking for doneness, remember to tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, that’s your sign it’s ready! Trust me, with these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking confidence in no time!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
One of the great things about this simple bread recipe is its flexibility! If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, consider swapping out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. It adds a lovely nutty flavor and a bit more fiber to your loaf. You can also experiment with different types of flour, like spelt or rye, for unique textures and tastes. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add some herbs or spices? A teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor beautifully. Or, for a hint of sweetness, try mixing in a tablespoon of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about making this bread your own!
Nutritional Information
When you enjoy a slice of this homemade bread, you’re treating yourself to a comforting yet simple delight. Each slice is estimated to have about 120 calories, 2g of fat, 4g of protein, and 22g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients used. So, feel free to savor your bread knowing it’s both delicious and fairly wholesome!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I store the bread?
Storing your homemade bread properly is key to keeping it fresh! Once it’s completely cooled, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can keep it at room temperature for up to a week. If you notice it getting a bit stale, don’t worry! A quick toast or warm-up in the oven can bring back that lovely texture.
Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve your bread for later enjoyment. Just wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can pop slices directly in the toaster or warm them in the oven!
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, don’t panic! It could be due to a few reasons. First, check the freshness of your yeast—if it’s expired, it won’t activate properly. Also, ensure your water wasn’t too hot; it should be warm to the touch but not scalding. If it’s chilly in your kitchen, try moving the dough to a warmer spot, like an oven with just the light on. A little patience can go a long way, so give it some time and keep an eye on it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy way to make homemade bread, even for beginners!
- You only need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- The satisfaction of pulling a warm, golden loaf out of the oven is unbeatable.
- It fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma, making your home feel inviting.
- You can customize it with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Simple Bread Recipe: 6 Steps to Cozy Comfort Baking
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple bread recipe that is easy to follow and perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add olive oil, salt, and flour gradually. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased bread pan.
- Let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom to check if it sounds hollow.
- Let it cool before slicing.
Notes
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
- Add herbs or spices for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: simple bread recipe, easy bread, homemade bread
