Homemade Bread
Look no further for the BEST and simplest homemade Bread recipe made with just six simple pantry ingredients! It’s the perfect white bread for sandwiches and it freezes well too. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to enjoy fresh bread at home, this homemade bread will impress everyone. Its soft texture and delightful aroma make it an essential recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With just six pantry staples, making homemade bread is easier than you think!
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as sandwich bread, toast, or served alongside soups and salads.
- Freezing Friendly: Bake a batch and freeze half for later; it stays fresh for weeks.
- Great Aroma: The smell of freshly baked bread fills your home, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- Wholesome Ingredients: You control what goes into your bread, ensuring it’s healthy and delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your homemade bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pans (9×5 inches)
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing and kneading the dough.
- Loaf pans: Ensure uniform shape and size for your bread loaves.
- Wire cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the bread so it cools evenly without getting soggy.
Ingredients
- 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 either sugar or honey. Allow this mixture to rest for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This step is crucial to ensure that the yeast is active; if it doesn’t foam, you may need to start over with fresh yeast.
Step 2: Mix in Ingredients
Add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3: Add More Flour
Incorporate another cup of flour and mix again. While mixing, gradually add more flour, about half a cup at a time, until the dough starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl. The end result should be a smooth, elastic dough that slightly sticks to your finger but isn’t overly sticky.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for about 4-5 minutes using a stand mixer on medium speed. Alternatively, you can knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 5-8 minutes until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 5: First Rise
Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place the dough inside, turning it to coat in oil. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, which usually takes about 1.5 hours.
Step 6: Prepare Bread Pans
Generously spray two 9×5” loaf pans with cooking spray on all sides. Optionally, line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Punch down the risen dough to remove air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into long logs before placing them into greased loaf pans.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover each pan with a lightweight towel or spray plastic wrap with cooking spray before laying it over each pan gently. Allow the dough to rise again for about 45 minutes to one hour until it rises about an inch above the loaf pans.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for about 30-33 minutes until golden brown on top. To check if it’s done, give the top of each loaf a gentle tap; it should sound hollow.
Step 10: Cool Down
Invert both loaves onto a wire cooling rack. Brush their tops with butter if desired and allow them to cool for at least ten minutes before slicing.
Step 11: Store Your Bread
Once cooled completely, store your homemade bread in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to five days.
With these easy steps, you’ll have delightful loaves of homemade bread ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Bread
Homemade bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or a hearty meal, there are numerous serving suggestions that elevate your bread experience.
Toasted Slices
- Toast the bread slices for a crispy texture. Top them with butter, jam, or avocado for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Sandwiches
- Use the bread for making sandwiches. Fill them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies for a satisfying lunch option.
Garlic Bread
- Transform your homemade bread into garlic bread. Spread a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs on slices and bake until golden.
French Toast
- Dip slices of homemade bread in an egg mixture to make French toast. Serve with syrup and fresh fruits for a delightful brunch.
Bread Pudding
- Use leftover bread to create a sweet or savory bread pudding. This dish is perfect for using up stale bread while creating something delicious.
Bread with Dips
- Serve alongside dips like hummus or spinach-artichoke dip. The soft texture of the homemade bread pairs perfectly with creamy spreads.
How to Perfect Homemade Bread
Achieving the perfect loaf of homemade bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success every time you bake.
- Use warm water: The ideal temperature for activating yeast is between 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps the yeast grow effectively.
- Proof the yeast: Allowing the yeast to sit in warm water with sugar ensures it is active before adding other ingredients.
- Knead properly: Kneading develops gluten, which gives your bread structure. Ensure you knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise: Be patient during rising times. A warm environment helps the dough double in size, resulting in a better texture.
- Check for doneness: Tap the loaf lightly after baking; if it sounds hollow, it’s done! This indicates that steam has escaped properly.
- Store correctly: Keep your homemade bread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Bread
Homemade bread complements many side dishes perfectly. Here are some great options that pair well with your freshly baked loaf.
-
Soup
A bowl of hearty soup such as tomato basil or chicken noodle enhances the meal experience with homemade bread on the side. -
Salad
Fresh salads like Caesar or garden salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm bread, making for a balanced meal. -
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted seasonal veggies add flavor and nutrition, making them an excellent accompaniment to your homemade bread. -
Cheese Platter
Pair your bread with an assortment of cheeses. This combination works beautifully for appetizers or casual gatherings. -
Stews
Rich stews like beef bourguignon or vegetable stew make excellent pairings; use the bread to soak up delicious sauces. -
Dips
Serve various dips like tzatziki or marinara sauce alongside your homemade bread; these add flavor while enhancing texture. -
Grilled Meats
Enjoy grilled chicken or steak as a main dish alongside slices of fresh homemade bread for a filling meal. -
Stuffed Peppers
These colorful dishes filled with rice, beans, or meat complement homemade bread wonderfully and make it feel like home-cooked comfort food.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade bread is a rewarding experience, but some common errors can hinder your success. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Using old yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam during proofing, it’s best to start over.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use measuring cups and spoons for the best results.
- Skipping the first rise: Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size for a light texture. Don’t rush this step.
- Over-kneading the dough: Knead just enough to achieve a smooth, elastic dough. Over-kneading can lead to tough bread.
- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is crucial for good oven spring. Preheat it before baking your bread.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store homemade bread in an airtight container or bag.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Homemade Bread
- Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds each, being careful not to dry them out.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding homemade bread:
How do I make my Homemade Bread rise better?
To enhance rising, ensure your yeast is fresh and allow adequate time for both rises. A warm environment helps too!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can! However, replace only part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, as it absorbs more moisture.
What is the best way to store Homemade Bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it for longer freshness.
How can I customize my Homemade Bread recipe?
Add herbs, garlic, cheese, or seeds for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different flours!
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Bread recipe offers comfort and satisfaction with its simple ingredients and straightforward process. It’s versatile enough for sandwiches or toast. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins!
Homemade Bread
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Homemade Bread is the ultimate comforting recipe that transforms simple pantry ingredients into soft, fluffy loaves perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. With just six easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The delightful aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that will impress family and friends alike. Plus, it freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness whenever the craving strikes. Ready to elevate your bread-making skills? Let’s dive into this straightforward recipe that guarantees delicious results every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (105–115 degrees)
- 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 or bread flour
Instructions
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix yeast with warm water and a pinch of honey/sugar; let it foam for 5-10 minutes.
- Add remaining sugar/honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour; mix well.
- Gradually add more flour until dough pulls away from bowl sides but is still slightly sticky.
- Knead dough for about 4-5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl; cover and let rise until doubled in size (about 1.5 hours).
- Prepare two greased loaf pans.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into two portions; shape into logs and place in pans.
- Cover and let rise again until dough rises above pan edges (45 minutes to 1 hour).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30-33 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack; brush with butter if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
