Bread, the staple food that has been nourishing people for centuries, holds a special place in our hearts and on our tables. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, and the satisfaction of slicing into a warm loaf. If you’re ready to embark on a baking adventure and create your own homemade bread, we have a delightful recipe for you. Get ready to experience the joy of making bread from scratch, and enjoy the taste of freshly baked goodness.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- 1 ½ cups warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar or honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to leaven the bread. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well in the flour. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the flour mixture until a shaggy dough forms. - Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for kneading. - First Rise:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it doubles in size. - Shape and Second Rise:
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into your desired loaf shape, such as a boule or a batard. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. - Preheat and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough is rising. Once the dough has finished its second rise, score the top with a sharp knife or razor blade to allow for proper expansion during baking. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. - Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the bread to set and retain moisture. Serve the freshly baked bread warm or at room temperature, and enjoy it with your favorite spreads or use it for sandwiches.
With this straightforward recipe for homemade bread, you’re ready to embark on a baking journey that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness. From the initial mixing of ingredients to the satisfying task of shaping and watching the dough rise, the process of making bread is a rewarding one. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the simple pleasure of baking bread fill your home. Indulge in the delight of homemade bread and savor every slice.
