homemade bread recipe

Sure! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for homemade bread. This is a basic white bread recipe, perfect for beginners.

Basic White Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mixing the Dough:
   • Add the salt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
   • Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
3. Kneading the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. You can test the dough by poking it; if it springs back, it’s ready.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
5. Shaping the Dough:
   • Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Shape the dough into a loaf.
6. Second Rise:
   • Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise again in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
7. Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
   • If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
8. Cooling:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade bread!