Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for beginner bakers
• Soft, fluffy interior
• Beautiful golden crust
• Made with basic pantry ingredients
• Minimal kneading required
• Great for sandwiches and toast
• Freezer-friendly
• Delicious fresh or toasted

Ingredients

• 3½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
• 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
• Extra butter for brushing (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Kitchen towel
• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may no longer be active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture.

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

If needed, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl.

Turn it once to coat the surface with oil.

Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.

Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough gently to release excess air.

Shape it into a rectangle, then roll it tightly into a loaf.

Pinch the seams closed and place it seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the loaf loosely.

Let it rise for another 30–45 minutes until it crowns about an inch above the rim of the pan.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the loaf is deeply golden brown.

The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, or reach an internal temperature of about 190–200°F (88–93°C).

Step 8: Cool

Remove the bread from the pan immediately.

Brush with melted butter if desired for a softer crust.

Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Use warm—not hot—water to activate the yeast.
• Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Avoid adding too much flour; the dough should remain slightly soft.
• Let the bread cool before slicing to maintain its texture.
• Bread flour gives a chewier loaf, while all-purpose flour creates a softer crumb.

Delicious Variations

Honey Bread

Replace the sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey for a subtle sweetness.

Herb Bread

Mix in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning or dried rosemary.

Garlic Butter Bread

Brush the top with garlic butter immediately after baking.

Cheese Bread

Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella before shaping.

Whole Wheat Version

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this easy homemade bread:

• Warm with butter and jam
• As sandwich bread
• Toasted with avocado
• Alongside soups and stews
• With pasta dishes
• As garlic bread
• For French toast
• With peanut butter and honey

Storage

Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the bread more quickly.

Freezing

Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw at room temperature before serving, and warm in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 2 hours
• Bake Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours
• Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)
• Cuisine: American
• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition (Per Slice, Approximate)

• Calories: 170
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 280mg