In the world of cozy homes and comforting aromas, few things beat the simple pleasure of freshly baked homemade bread. The process of making your bread from scratch not only fills your home with a delightful scent but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and delicious loaf every time. If you’ve never tried your hand at baking bread before, fear not! This recipe for Homemade Bread is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Homemade Bread
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help your bread rise.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little extra flour as needed.
4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven: While the dough is on its final rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen in the loaf pan, place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy with your favorite spreads or as a side to soups and stews.
Homemade bread is a true labor of love that fills your home with warmth and welcomes all who enter with its delightful aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to result in a delicious loaf that will have everyone asking for more. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a bread-baking journey that will not only nourish your body but also feed your soul.
