This Quick and Easy Homemade Bread is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to make fresh bread in a hurry. With just a few simple ingredients and no complicated steps, this recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a deliciously chewy crust. I love baking this bread because it fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma and is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just eating warm with butter!
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
This Homemade Bread is fast, simple, and requires minimal ingredients. It’s a versatile loaf with a tender crumb and crisp crust, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to bread-making, this recipe is a breeze and guarantees satisfying results every time.
Recipe: Quick and Easy Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If too sticky, add a bit more flour as you knead.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan, cover again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Enjoy this bread fresh with butter, jam, or as the base for sandwiches. It’s also great toasted for breakfast.
Storage:
Store leftover bread in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze the bread for up to a month.
Helpful Notes
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm (110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading Time: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This is key to achieving a light, airy texture.
- Alternative Flours: Try using bread flour instead of all-purpose for a slightly chewier texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary.
Q2: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water with the sugar for 5-10 minutes before mixing with the dry ingredients.
Q3: How do I get a softer crust?
For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter after baking.
Q4: Can I add herbs or cheese to this bread?
Absolutely! Add dried herbs or shredded cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
Q5: Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if baking multiple loaves at once.
Final Thoughts
This Quick and Easy Homemade Bread is a staple recipe that’s perfect for any time you want fresh, homemade bread without the fuss. It’s soft, versatile, and easy to make, providing you with a warm, comforting loaf every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious aroma as your bread bakes to perfection!
Quick and Easy Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water 110°F or 43°C
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If too sticky, add a bit more flour as you knead.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
- Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan, cover again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm (110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading Time: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This is key to achieving a light, airy texture.
- Alternative Flours: Try using bread flour instead of all-purpose for a slightly chewier texture.
