Classic Homemade Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Making bread from scratch might seem intimidating, but this classic homemade bread recipe is simple, foolproof, and perfect for beginners. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can create a loaf that’s soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe, along with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Why Make Homemade Bread?

Homemade bread is healthier, tastier, and more satisfying than store-bought versions. You control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and get to enjoy the pride of baking your own loaf. Plus, the process is incredibly therapeutic!

Ingredients for Classic Homemade Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make one loaf of classic homemade bread:

4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Homemade Bread

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter) to the flour.
Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

3. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second Rise

Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up slightly above the rim of the pan.

7. Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

8. Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Notes and Tips

Yeast Check: If your yeast doesn’t froth, it may be expired. Start over with fresh yeast.
Warm Environment: For the best rise, place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot. You can turn your oven on for 1 minute, then turn it off and place the dough inside.
Storage: Store homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a ziplock bag.
Crusty Bread: For a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe dish of water on the bottom rack while baking.Variations to Try

1. Whole Wheat Bread

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, nuttier loaf.

2. Herb and Garlic Bread

Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) and 2 minced garlic cloves to the dough for a flavorful twist.

3. Sweet Bread

Add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the dough for a slightly sweet loaf.

4. Seeded Bread

Mix in 2 tablespoons of seeds (like sunflower, sesame, or flaxseeds) for added texture and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast doesn’t need to be activated and can be mixed directly into the flour.

2. Why didn’t my bread rise?

This could be due to expired yeast, water that was too hot (which kills yeast), or a cold environment. Always check your yeast and ensure your dough is in a warm spot.

3. Can I make this bread without a loaf pan?

Absolutely! Shape the dough into a round loaf, place it on a baking sheet, and bake as directed.

4. How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread is done when the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) or when it sounds hollow when tapped.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, but you’ll need to use a gluten-free flour blend and possibly add xanthan gum for structure.

The Joy of Homemade Bread

Baking your own bread is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. This classic homemade bread recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for anyone looking to start their bread-baking journey. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or experiment with variations, you’ll love the taste and texture of freshly baked bread.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake the perfect loaf of bread. Happy baking! 🍞