Do you ever crave the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere? If so, this recipe for “Home Made” bread is perfect for you. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a beautiful loaf from scratch, with the added bonus of your house being enveloped in the delicious scent of baking bread. So let’s roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and get baking!
**Home Made**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 ¼ tsp of active dry yeast
– 1 ½ cups of warm water
– 1 tsp of salt
– 1 tbsp of sugar
– 2 tbsp of olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:**
– In a small bowl, combine the warm water with the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and will help your bread rise beautifully.
2. **Combine Ingredients:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
3. **Knead the Dough:**
– Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Begin kneading the dough by pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand and then folding it back towards yourself. Continue kneading for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. **First Rise:**
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. **Shape the Dough:**
– Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. **Preheat and Bake:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before placing the loaf in the oven, you can make shallow slashes on the top with a sharp knife to allow for expansion during baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. **Cool and Enjoy:**
– Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing into a warm slice is pure comfort!
There you have it – a simple and delightful recipe for making your own “Home Made” bread. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your home. Embrace the process of baking and enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor a slice of freshly baked homemade bread. Happy baking!
