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)
