Homemade Bread

Look no further for the BEST and simplest homemade bread recipe made with just six simple pantry ingredients! It’s the perfect white bread for sandwiches and it freezes well too! This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet yields a loaf that will impress anyone. Whether you serve it warm with butter, make it into a delicious sandwich, or toast it for breakfast, this homemade bread is versatile and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just six ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Great for Meal Prep: This homemade bread freezes well, allowing you to enjoy fresh bread anytime without the hassle of daily baking.
• Customizable: You can easily add herbs, seeds, or spices to create your unique variation of homemade bread.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a soft crust and light, fluffy interior that makes every bite satisfying.
• Healthy Option: By using honey or sugar in moderation, you can control the sweetness while avoiding preservatives found in store-bought bread.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having essential equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
• Plastic wrap or dish towel
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and quicker, especially if you’re making large batches of homemade bread.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Loaf pans: Help shape the dough as it rises and bakes into a perfectly formed loaf.

Ingredients

To prepare your homemade bread, gather these simple ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water (105-115 degrees) ((474g))
• 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar ((85g honey, 50g sugar))
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable) ((30 ml))
• 4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour ((500g-688g))

How to Make Homemade Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, add the yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar or honey. Allow this mixture to rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This step is known as “proofing” the yeast. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may not be active; start again with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Once proofed, add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and three cups of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add another cup of flour while mixing. Continue adding flour half a cup at a time until your dough begins to pull away from the bowl’s sides. The dough should be smooth but slightly sticky when touched.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Knead your dough by mixing on medium speed for about 4–5 minutes in a stand mixer. Alternatively, knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 5–8 minutes until elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place your kneaded dough inside and turn to coat it in oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a dish towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1½ hours or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare Loaf Pans

Spray two 9×5-inch loaf pans generously with cooking spray on all sides. (Optionally line the bottom with parchment paper.)

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Punch down your risen dough to remove any air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into long logs and place them in greased loaf pans.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pans with a lightweight dish towel (or use lightly greased plastic wrap). Allow the dough to rise again for about 45 minutes to one hour until it rises about an inch above the pan edges.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your bread for approximately 30–33 minutes or until golden brown on top. A gentle tap on top should sound hollow when done.

Step 9: Cool Down

Invert loaves onto a wire cooling rack. Brush tops with butter if desired and allow cooling for at least ten minutes before slicing.

Step 10: Storage

Once completely cool, store your homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; refrigerate for up to five days if needed.

With this simple recipe for homemade bread, you are sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors while embracing the joy of baking at home.

How to Serve Homemade Bread

Homemade bread is delicious and versatile, making it a great addition to any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy your fresh loaf.

Classic Sandwiches

• Use slices of homemade bread for your favorite sandwiches like turkey, ham, or veggie. The soft texture complements various fillings perfectly.

Toast with Toppings

• Toast slices of homemade bread and top with butter, jam, or avocado for a simple yet satisfying snack or breakfast option.

Garlic Bread

• Transform homemade bread into garlic bread by spreading garlic butter on slices and toasting until golden brown. It pairs wonderfully with pasta.

Bread Bowls

• Hollow out a round loaf of homemade bread and fill it with soups or stews for a hearty and fun presentation that adds flavor to the dish.

French Toast

• Dip slices of homemade bread in an egg mixture and cook them on a skillet for a sweet breakfast treat. Serve with syrup or fresh fruit.

Croutons

• Cut leftover homemade bread into cubes, season, and bake until crispy for crunchy croutons that add texture to salads and soups.

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How to Perfect Homemade Bread

To ensure your homemade bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use warm water: Water should be between 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit to activate the yeast effectively.
• Knead properly: Kneading develops gluten, giving your bread structure. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
• Don’t rush the rises: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for texture; patience will reward you with fluffy loaves.
• Check oven temperature: An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking. An oven thermometer can help avoid undercooking or burning.
• Cool completely: Letting the bread cool before slicing helps maintain its shape and texture without becoming gummy.
• Experiment with flour: Different flours can alter flavor and texture; don’t hesitate to mix all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Bread

Homemade bread pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavor. Consider these options for your next meal.

1. Garden Salad: A refreshing salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread.
2. Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing creates comfort food bliss as you dunk your homemade bread into warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a colorful side that complements the mild flavor of homemade bread.
4. Cheese Platter: Serve an assortment of cheeses alongside your fresh loaf; they make excellent pairings that elevate any cheese lover’s experience.
5. Chili: A hearty bowl of chili works beautifully served over slices of homemade bread for a filling meal on chilly nights.
6. Deviled Eggs: These savory bites are perfect appetizers that go hand-in-hand with the soft texture of freshly baked bread.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, meat, or beans provide a nutritious side that pairs well with homemade sandwiches.
8. Grilled Chicken Salad: This light yet satisfying dish topped with grilled chicken adds protein while balancing the carbs from the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade bread can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold water: Always use warm water (105-115 degrees) when proofing your yeast. Cold water can prevent the yeast from activating properly.
• Skipping proofing the yeast: Never skip this step. Proofing ensures that your yeast is alive and well. If it doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, start over with new yeast.
• Not kneading enough: Proper kneading develops gluten, which is essential for the bread’s texture. Make sure to knead for at least 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Ignoring rise times: Allow your dough the time it needs to rise. Rushing the rising process can result in dense bread. Look for it to double in size, which usually takes about 1.5 hours.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on your loaves while they bake. A loaf is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the top.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store homemade bread in an airtight container or bag for up to 5 days.
• Keep it in a cool part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Homemade Bread

• Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Homemade Bread without a mixer?

You can easily make homemade bread by hand! Follow the same instructions but mix and knead using your hands instead of a mixer.

What is the best flour for Homemade Bread?

All-purpose flour works well, but using bread flour will yield a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

Can I customize my Homemade Bread?

Absolutely! You can add herbs, cheese, or even nuts and seeds to create unique flavors that suit your taste.

Why did my Homemade Bread turn out dense?

A dense loaf may be caused by not allowing enough rise time or using too much flour. Measure accurately and ensure proper proofing.

Final Thoughts

This homemade bread recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter, you can easily customize it with various ingredients. Give it a try today and savor the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread!