Description
A heartwarming homemade bread recipe that delivers a crusty exterior and a soft, pillowy interior—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups Warm water
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, creating a well in the center for the yeast mixture.
- Combine the mixtures: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour and salt. Use a wooden spoon or dough scraper to gradually mix until combined.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 60 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Once risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape it into a loaf or round, depending on your preference.
- Second rise: Place the shaped dough into a prepared baking vessel, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Store bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Make-ahead options are available for added convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg