Homemade Bread Recipe

This homemade bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a tender crumb and golden crust. The dough is easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and accessible. With warm water, yeast, sugar, and butter, this bread will fill your home with a comforting aroma as it bakes. Whether you’re preparing it for sandwiches, as a side to a hearty soup, or simply to enjoy with butter, this bread is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Its light, airy texture makes it a favorite among both seasoned bakers and beginners.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours (including resting and rising time)

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (200 ml)
• 1 tbsp yeast (10 grams)
• 4 tsp sugar
• 1/3 cup (60 ml)
• 1 cup warm milk (200 ml)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 5 cups flour (600 g) + ~30-50 g for working with the dough
• 100 g butter (softened)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast:

   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to rise.

2. Combine wet ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Add the yeast mixture once it’s ready.

3. Add the flour:

   • Gradually add 5 cups of flour to the wet ingredients, mixing it in slowly to form a dough. You may need to add an extra 30-50 grams of flour as you work with the dough, depending on the consistency.

4. Knead the dough:

   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.

5. Let the dough rise:

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

6. Prepare the loaf:

   • After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface again and shape it into a loaf. You can place it in a greased bread pan or shape it freeform.

7. Second rise:

   • Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, allowing the dough to puff up.

8. Preheat the oven:

   • While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. Bake the bread:

   • Once the dough has risen, place it in the
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Add butter:

• As soon as the bread is out of the oven, brush the top with softened butter for a soft, golden finish.

11. Cool and serve:

• Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or store in an for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Facts (Per serving, assuming 10 servings)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 4%
• Vitamin C: 0%
• Calcium: 1%
• Iron: 8%

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade bread recipe is not only simple but also results in a soft, fluffy loaf that pairs well with virtually anything. The use of butter gives it a rich, tender crumb, while the slightly sweet and yeasty flavor is irresistible. Whether you’re new to bread making or a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, producing consistently delicious results every time.

Enjoy.