Description
Simple Homemade Bread: Warm, Golden, Soul-Satisfying Loaf
A fluffy, crackly-crusted loaf made with just 5 ingredients. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter.
Ingredients
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3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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1 tbsp sugar
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2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
Instructions
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Activate Yeast:
In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 min until foamy. -
Make Dough:
Add flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. -
Knead Dough:
Turn onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 min until smooth, elastic, and slightly springy. Add flour sparingly if sticky. -
First Rise:
Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, turn to coat, cover with damp towel or plastic wrap. Let rise 1 hour or until doubled. -
Shape & Second Rise:
Punch down dough. Shape into a loaf for a greased 9×5-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30–40 min until slightly above the pan. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 25–30 min until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Optional: brush with melted butter or egg wash for a shiny crust. -
Cool:
Cool in pan 10 min, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
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Herb & Garlic: Knead in 2 tbsp fresh herbs + 1–2 garlic cloves.
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Whole Wheat: Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat (may need extra water).
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Everything Bagel: Sprinkle seasoning on top before second rise.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Roll out dough, add sugar + cinnamon, roll, and bake.
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Cheesy Pull-Apart: Form small balls, coat with butter + cheese, bake in Bundt pan.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120Cal Per Serving
- Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Protein: 3 g