Here’s a classic homemade bread recipe that’s simple and yields soft, delicious results. This is a basic white bread recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mixture, along with the softened butter and olive oil.
- Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. You can add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky, but be careful not to add too much.
4. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat the dough with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Punch the dough down to release the air, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a loaf by folding in the sides and rolling it up tightly.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the pan with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the edge of the pan.
7. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade classic bread with butter, jam, or as a sandwich base!
