homemade bread – recipesshubb

Homemade Bread Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Delicious

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Making homemade bread may seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and simple steps, you can enjoy soft, fluffy, golden loaves right from your oven. This recipe is perfect for beginners, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Optional Add-Ins or Toppings:

1 tablespoon seeds (sesame, sunflower, or poppy seeds)
1 tablespoon oats
Herbs like rosemary or thyme
Garlic or onion powder for extra flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast.
Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active.

Tip: Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold can slow down rising. Aim for warm, not hot.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Pro Tip: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread structure and a chewy texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat it in oil.
Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough to release air.
Shape it into a round or oval loaf, or divide it into two smaller loaves.
Place the shaped dough on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough loosely and let it rise for 30–45 minutes, until slightly puffy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

Brush the top of the loaf with water, milk, or beaten egg for a golden crust.
Sprinkle seeds, oats, or herbs for extra flavor and texture.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on loaf size, until the bread is golden brown.
Tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow when fully baked.

Step 9: Cool the Bread

Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20–30 minutes.
Slicing too soon can make the bread gummy, so be patient!

Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread

Measure Flour Carefully: Too much flour can make the bread dense. Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it with a knife.
Check Yeast Freshness: Expired yeast can prevent the dough from rising. Always test yeast in warm water first.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients at room temperature helps the dough rise evenly.
Avoid Over-Kneading: Kneading too long can make the bread tough. Stop once the dough is smooth and elastic.
Flavor Variations: Add garlic powder, rosemary, shredded cheese, or cinnamon and raisins for sweet or savory twists.

Storage

Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled bread in a clean kitchen towel or place in a bread box. It will stay fresh for 2–3 days.
Freezing: Slice and freeze bread in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Toast or reheat slices as needed.
Reheating: Refresh slightly stale bread by warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Bread

Fresh and Fragrant: Nothing beats the aroma of bread straight from the oven.
Customizable: Adjust sweetness, toppings, or add-ins to suit your taste.
Healthier Option: Control ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought bread.
Satisfying: Making bread from scratch is fun, rewarding, and perfect for family baking projects.

Variations

Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute 2 cups of flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier loaf.
Herb and Garlic Bread: Mix in 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs.
Sweet Bread: Add 1–2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, or raisins to the dough for a breakfast-style loaf.
Seeded Bread: Roll the dough in sesame, sunflower, or poppy seeds before baking for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade bread may feel like an art, but it’s simpler than you think. With just a few ingredients, a bit of patience, and some love, you can enjoy soft, fluffy, golden loaves that taste far better than anything from the store. Once you bake your first loaf, you’ll find endless ways to experiment—with herbs, seeds, cheeses, or sweet fillings.

Whether it’s for sandwiches, toast, or just a slice with butter, this homemade bread recipe is a classic that will become a staple in your kitchen. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of slicing into a loaf you made with your own hands.