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Homemade Bread

Homemade Bread

A delightful and rewarding experience of baking fresh bread at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3.25 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and helps the bread rise.
  • 2.25 teaspoons Instant Yeast Makes the bread rise.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1.25 cups Warm Water Activates the yeast.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and richness.
Optional Add-ins
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs For flavor enhancement.
  • 1 cup Cheese Shredded, for savory flavor.
  • 1 cup Dried Fruits For sweetness.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Loaf pan
  • oven
  • wire rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  2. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Gently punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
  6. Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Baking homemade bread can be a rewarding experience, but avoid common mistakes like using old yeast or not measuring ingredients accurately.