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Homemade Classic Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 134 reviews

This homemade bread recipe results in soft, flavorful loaves perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to any meal. Using simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward process, this bread is ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers looking to create fresh, warm bread at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups warm water (474g)
  • 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup honey or sugar (85g honey or 50g sugar)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 Tablespoons oil (30 ml)
  • 4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour (500g – 688g)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar or honey. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Add remaining ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix until well combined.
  3. Incorporate additional flour: Gradually add more flour, about one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. Knead the dough: Knead the dough either by hand or with a stand mixer for 4-5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  5. First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
  6. Prepare the pans: Grease two loaf pans. Divide the dough evenly into two portions, shape each into a loaf, and place them into the pans.
  7. Second rise: Cover the loaves and let them rise again until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the pans, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  8. Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30-33 minutes until golden brown on top.
  9. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven, allow to cool completely before slicing, and store properly to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • You can substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetness.
  • The amount of flour may vary depending on humidity and flour type; add gradually until the dough is manageable.
  • Allowing the dough to rise fully develops flavor and texture.
  • For a crispier crust, bake on the middle rack and place a pan of water below to create steam.
  • Store bread in an airtight container or bread box to keep it fresh longer.

Keywords: homemade bread, yeast bread, soft bread loaf, easy bread recipe, baking bread at home

Find it online: https://kochenmitviktoria.com/homemade-classic-bread-recipe/