Description
Warm, crusty, and aromatic, The Best Homemade Bread is a delightful creation that fills your kitchen with comfort and nostalgia. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this loaf is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter. Ideal for beginners, this recipe allows for customization with herbs or spices to match your taste preferences. Impress your family and friends with the irresistible scent of freshly baked bread from your oven.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Stir in yeast and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- 3. Combine Mixtures: Pour activated yeast into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- 4. Knead Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- 5. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area until doubled, about 1 hour.
- 6. Shape & Bake: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, place it in a greased pan or on a baking sheet. Let rise again for an hour then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (45g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Enhance flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme. For whole grain goodness, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Store bread wrapped in a clean towel to maintain freshness; reheat slices in the toaster or oven.