Homemade Bread
Homemade Bread
Introduction
Homemade bread is a warm and comforting treat that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Making bread at home can feel very special, and it’s a great way to enjoy fresh, soft loaves straight from your oven.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own bread allows you to use simple ingredients and avoid additives. Plus, it’s satisfying to knead the dough and watch it rise. You get delicious, fresh bread that you can share with family and friends.
How to Make Homemade Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 5-6 cups all-purpose flour
Optional: flour for dusting and additional oil for greasing
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Once the yeast is activated, add vegetable oil and salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape into loaves.
- Place the shaped loaves into greased bread pans. Cover and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes until doubled.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing and enjoy your homemade bread!
How to Serve Homemade Bread
You can serve homemade bread warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. It’s also great for sandwiches or alongside soups and salads.
How to Store Homemade Bread
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It stays fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices and toast them later!
Tips to Make Homemade Bread
- Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to help the yeast activate.
- Knead well until the dough feels smooth and elastic.
- Keep the dough in a warm area to encourage rising.
Variation (If Any)
You can add herbs, cheese, or garlic to the dough for different flavors. You can also try whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast; just mix it directly with the flour without activating in water first.
What if my dough doesn’t rise? Check that your yeast is fresh and that the water is warm enough. If the dough is too cold, it might not rise well.
Can I make this bread without sugar? You can reduce or omit sugar, but a little sugar helps the yeast work better and adds some sweetness.
Homemade Bread
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 5-6 cups all-purpose flour Adjust depending on dough consistency.
Optional Ingredients
- flour for dusting
- additional oil for greasing
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Once the yeast is activated, add vegetable oil and salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape into loaves.
- Place the shaped loaves into greased bread pans. Cover and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes until doubled.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing and enjoy your homemade bread!
