Here’s a simple homemade loaf of bread that’s soft inside with a golden crust. 🍞
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 cup warm water (about 40–45°C / 105–110°F)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
- Add oil, salt, and 2 cups flour to the yeast mixture.
- Mix well.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover with a cloth.
- Let rise in a warm place 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
- Punch down the dough.
- Shape it into a loaf.
- Place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
- Cover and let rise again 30–40 minutes.
7. Bake
- Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
8. Cool
- Remove from pan and let cool on a rack before slicing.
Tips for Better Bread
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Brush the top with melted butter after baking for a soft crust.
- Tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
✅ Optional Add-ins
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or sunflower seeds
- 1 tsp garlic powder and herbs for savory bread
- ½ cup raisins and cinnamon for sweet bread
If you’d like, I can also give you:
- A no-knead artisan bread recipe (very easy, bakery style)
- A super soft milk bread loaf like Japanese bakery bread 🍞
- A 3-ingredient emergency bread recipe.