Soft and fluffy homemade bread with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm with butter. This classic recipe is straightforward and results in a loaf that’s both delicious and versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe yields a tender, fluffy interior with a perfectly golden crust. The process is simple enough for beginners yet produces professional-quality bread. Plus, the homemade touch ensures there are no preservatives or additives—just pure, wholesome flavor. Whether I need a base for a sandwich or a slice to slather with butter, this bread always satisfies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, I dissolve the sugar in warm water. I sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
I add the oil or melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture, stirring until combined.
Gradually, I mix in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Turning the dough onto a floured surface, I knead it for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
I place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, until it doubles in size.
After punching down the dough, I shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. I cover it and let it rise again for 30-40 minutes.
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Finally, I remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 1 loaf (12 slices)
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Variations
Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, nuttier loaf.
Herb-Infused Bread: Mix in chopped rosemary, thyme, or garlic for a fragrant twist.
Sweet Bread: Add a tablespoon of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
Seeded Bread: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
To store, I let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, I toast slices in a toaster or warm the loaf in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.
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FAQs
How do I know if the yeast is active?
I ensure the yeast becomes frothy when mixed with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t, I start over with fresh yeast.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, I substitute equal amounts of instant yeast, but skip the proofing step. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Why is my bread dense instead of fluffy?
Dense bread can result from insufficient kneading or not letting the dough rise long enough. I ensure the dough is elastic and has doubled in size before baking.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Bread flour gives the bread a chewier texture and enhances the structure.
How do I achieve a soft crust?
For a softer crust, I brush the bread with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
Conclusion
Homemade bread is a delightful addition to any meal and a rewarding baking project. With its fluffy texture and golden crust, this loaf is a versatile staple. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, it’s a recipe I’ll return to time and time again.
📖 Recipe:
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Homemade Bread
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and fluffy homemade bread with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm with butter. This easy recipe is beginner-friendly, with wholesome ingredients and no preservatives, ensuring a delicious loaf every time.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Dissolve sugar in warm water in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add oil or melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually mix in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Ensure yeast froths for proper activation.
Substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+1.5 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
- Calories: 150 kcal per slice (based on 12 slices)
