Homemade Bread
Look no further for the BEST and simplest homemade Bread recipe made with just six simple pantry ingredients! This Homemade Bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying fresh out of the oven. Its delightful aroma and soft texture make it a family favorite for any occasion. Plus, it freezes well, ensuring that you always have delicious bread on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just six pantry staples, this recipe is accessible for everyone.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side with your favorite meals.
- Freezes Well: You can easily freeze this bread to enjoy later without losing flavor.
- Family Favorite: The soft texture and warm aroma will please both kids and adults alike.
- Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy fresh bread in no time!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Homemade Bread, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pans (two 9×5 inches)
- Dish towel or plastic wrap
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes kneading quicker and easier, ensuring a consistent dough texture.
- Loaf pans: Help shape the bread perfectly while baking, resulting in beautiful loaves.
- Wire cooling rack: Allows air to circulate around the bread, preventing sogginess as it cools.
Ingredients
For this easy Homemade Bread, you will need:
- 2 cups warm water (105-115 degrees) ((474g))
- 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar ((85g honey, 50g sugar))
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable) ((30 ml))
- 4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour ((500g-688g))
How to Make Homemade Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl or stand mixer add the yeast, warm water, and a pinch of honey or sugar. Allow this mixture to rest for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it ensures that the yeast is active. If it doesn’t foam, you’ll need fresh yeast.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour to the activated yeast mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Add More Flour
Incorporate another cup of flour into the dough mixture. Continue adding flour gradually—½ cup at a time—until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The final result should be smooth and elastic but slightly sticky to touch.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for about 4–5 minutes using a stand mixer on medium speed or by hand on a floured surface for about 5–8 minutes. Aim for a smooth consistency.
Step 5: First Rise
Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place your kneaded dough inside and turn it to coat all sides. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size; approximately 1½ hours.
Step 6: Prepare Loaf Pans
While waiting for the first rise, generously spray two loaf pans with cooking spray on all sides. Optionally line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 7: Shape and Punch Down Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough to remove air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions and shape each portion into logs before placing them in greased loaf pans.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover your pans lightly with a dish towel or plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray. Let them rise again for about 45 minutes to one hour until they are about an inch above the pan edges.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for about 30–33 minutes until golden brown on top. A gentle tap on top should sound hollow when done.
Step 10: Cool Down
Invert each loaf onto a wire cooling rack. For added flavor, brush tops lightly with butter once out of the oven. Allow them to cool for at least ten minutes before slicing.
Step 11: Store Properly
Once cooled completely, store your homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to five days.
Enjoy your delightful homemade bread as part of any meal!
How to Serve Homemade Bread
Homemade bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a delightful addition to a meal, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.
Toasted with Toppings
- Butter and Jam: Spread fresh butter on warm slices and top with your favorite fruit jam for a sweet treat.
- Avocado Toast: Mash ripe avocado onto toasted bread, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes for a nutritious snack.
Sandwiches
- Classic BLT: Layer crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato between slices of homemade bread for a satisfying lunch.
- Grilled Cheese: Use your homemade bread to create a gooey grilled cheese sandwich that oozes flavor.
Soup Companion
- With Tomato Soup: Slice your homemade bread and serve it alongside creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- With Chicken Noodle Soup: Enjoy the heartiness of chicken noodle soup paired with slices of soft bread perfect for dipping.
Bread Pudding
- Sweet Bread Pudding: Use leftover homemade bread to make a delicious bread pudding dessert. The softness of the bread absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Homemade Bread
To achieve the best results with your homemade bread, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure that your yeast is active by checking its expiration date. Fresh yeast leads to better rise and texture.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly. This prevents dense bread caused by too much flour.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading activates gluten, which gives your bread structure. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough.
- Optimal Rising Conditions: Let the dough rise in a warm environment. If it’s too cold, the dough will take longer to rise or may not rise at all.
- Check Doneness Properly: Tap the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready! This indicates that it’s cooked through properly.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack prevents sogginess when sliced.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Bread
Pairing side dishes with homemade bread can elevate any meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with vinaigrette complements the rich flavor of homemade bread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a hearty side that pairs well with sandwiches made from the bread.
- Chili: A warm bowl of chili served alongside crusty slices of homemade bread makes for an excellent comfort food combination.
- Eggs Benedict: Top toasted slices of homemade bread with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for an indulgent brunch option.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed bell peppers can be served alongside slices of homemade bread for an enjoyable dinner.
- Pasta Primavera: Light pasta dish filled with vegetables goes well with the soft texture of freshly baked homemade bread for soaking up sauces.
Enjoy experimenting with these serving ideas and side dishes to make the most out of your delicious homemade bread!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using cold water: Cold water can kill the yeast, preventing your bread from rising. Always use warm water between 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Skipping the proofing step: Not allowing the yeast to foam can lead to dense bread. Always proof your yeast before mixing it with other ingredients.
- Not measuring flour properly: Too much or too little flour can affect the dough’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too long can make bread tough. Aim for smooth and elastic dough, kneading just enough to achieve this.
- Neglecting rising times: Rushing the rise can result in flat bread. Allow adequate time for both rises as specified in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store homemade bread in an airtight container or plastic bag.
- It will last about 2-3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Homemade Bread
- Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
- Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Homemade Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes for crusty bread.
- Microwave: Place on a plate with a damp paper towel and heat for 10-15 seconds for softening.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm it gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making homemade bread that might help you along your baking journey.
How do I know if my Homemade Bread is done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and tapping on it should sound hollow.
Can I make Homemade Bread without a mixer?
Yes, you can knead by hand on a floured surface! It may take more time but will yield great results.
What should I do if my Homemade Bread doesn’t rise?
Check your yeast’s freshness; old yeast won’t work. Also, ensure you’re using warm water for proofing.
How do I customize my Homemade Bread recipe?
You can add herbs, spices, or even seeds like sesame or poppy into the dough for added flavor!
Final Thoughts
This homemade bread recipe is not only simple but also versatile and delicious. You can enjoy it fresh or experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Whether you’re making sandwiches or simply enjoying a slice with butter, this homemade bread will surely satisfy your cravings!
Homemade Bread
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 slices 1x
Description
Discover the joy of baking with this simple and satisfying homemade bread recipe! With just six pantry ingredients, you’ll create a deliciously soft loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying warm from the oven. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it a family favorite in no time. Plus, this bread freezes beautifully, ensuring you always have fresh bread on hand. Follow our easy steps to bring the warmth of homemade bread to your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable)
- 4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of honey or sugar. Let sit until foamy (5-10 minutes).
- Mix in remaining honey/sugar, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour until combined.
- Gradually add more flour (½ cup at a time) until the dough pulls away from the sides and is smooth yet slightly sticky.
- Knead for about 4-5 minutes using a stand mixer or 5-8 minutes by hand until elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1½ hours).
- Punch down the dough and divide into two pieces. Shape into logs and place in greased loaf pans.
- Let rise again until above pan edges (45 minutes to 1 hour).
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 30–33 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–33 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (28g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
