Homemade Bread
Baking homemade bread is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and a delicious aroma. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating a loaf that’s crusty on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this homemade bread recipe is simple and satisfying. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started on this delightful baking journey!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf of bread (approximately 12 slices). Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes, plus rising time of about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 120 calories, 1.5g fat, 24g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 0g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased bread pan or on a baking sheet.
- Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, honey can replace sugar for a different sweetness and flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Homemade bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and spreads like butter or jam. Enjoy it fresh, toasted, or as a side for your favorite dishes.
Storage and Reheating
Store homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced bread in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster for best results.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately.
- Using cold water instead of warm for yeast activation.
- Over-kneading the dough, leading to a dense loaf.
- Skipping the rising time for best texture.
- Baking at too high a temperature, causing uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with adding herbs or cheese for flavor variations.
- Always check the expiration date on your yeast.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- Use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C).
FAQs
Why is my homemade bread dense?
A dense loaf can result from insufficient kneading, improper yeast activation, or using too much flour. Ensure to knead well and measure flour accurately.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may require additional water due to its higher absorbency.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add ingredients like nuts or fruits?
Absolutely! Fold in nuts, seeds, or dried fruits during the kneading process for added flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover bread?
Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or freeze it for longer storage to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Baking homemade bread is not just about the end product; it’s about the process and the joy of creating something from scratch. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy fresh, warm bread that enhances any meal. Happy baking!
Homemade Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased bread pan or on a baking sheet.
- Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
