Homemade Bread Recipe

 

Ingredients for Homemade Bread

To make this easy homemade bread, you’ll need:

3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 ½ teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon sugar

1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or olive oil for added flavor and moisture

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade Bread

Follow these detailed steps to bake the perfect loaf of homemade yeast bread.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.

Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired, or the water was too hot or too cold. Try again with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of flour and salt.

Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.

Step 3: Combine and Knead

Pour the yeast mixture and softened butter (plus honey/olive oil if using) into the well.

Mix using a wooden spoon or clean hands until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Add more flour gradually if the dough feels too sticky.

First Rise – Let the Dough Rise

Lightly oil a large bowl.

Place the dough inside and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.

Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Second Rise – Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough gently to release air.

On a floured surface, shape it into a loaf.

Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, or form a round loaf for a rustic style and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cover again and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Baking the Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Bake

Bake the bread for 25–30 minutesuntil:

Golden brown on top

Sounds hollow when tapped

Internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C)

Step 3: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Bread

Proper Kneading: Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly — this improves texture.

Warm Environment: Let the dough rise in a cozy spot — near a warm oven or inside a turned-off microwave.

Flavor Add-ins: Add herbs, shredded cheese, or seeds for custom flavors. Mix in ¼ cup of extras after kneading.

Storage: Keep bread in a cloth or paper bag at room temperaturefor up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it tightly wrapped.