Homemade Bread

Look no further for the BEST and simplest homemade bread recipe made with just six simple pantry ingredients! This delightful white bread is perfect for sandwiches and it freezes well too. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a cozy family dinner, or simply enjoying fresh bread at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With just six pantry staples, anyone can make this delicious homemade bread without any fuss.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side for soups and salads.
• Freezes Well: Make extra loaves and store them in the freezer for later enjoyment.
• Great Flavor: The combination of honey or sugar adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the bread’s flavor.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions ensure you’ll achieve bakery-quality results at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start your journey to baking the perfect homemade bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and faster, allowing for consistent dough texture.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for baking success.

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 to rest for 5-10 minutes until foaming and bubbly. This is called “proofing” the yeast to ensure it is active. If it doesn’t foam, repeat this step with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.

Step 3: Add More Flour

Add another cup of flour and mix again. With the mixer running, add flour half a cup at a time until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be smooth and elastic but slightly stick to a clean finger.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for about 4-5 minutes on medium speed in your stand mixer. Alternatively, you can knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 5-8 minutes.

Step 5: First Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place the dough inside and turn to coat. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—approximately 1.5 hours.

Step 6: Prepare Pans

Generously spray two 9×5” bread pans with cooking spray on all sides. Optionally line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 7: Shape Dough

Punch down the risen dough gently to remove air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each piece into long logs and place them into greased loaf pans.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover pans with a lightweight dish towel or plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray. Allow dough to rise again for about 45 minutes to one hour until risen about an inch above loaf pans.

Step 9: Bake

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

Step 10: 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 11: Store

Once cool, store in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to five days.

Now you have all you need to create delightful homemade bread that will elevate every meal! Enjoy every slice!

How to Serve Homemade Bread

Homemade bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways! Whether as a side, a base for a delicious sandwich, or simply with butter, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Toasted with Butter

• Serve slices of homemade bread toasted until golden brown and spread with a generous amount of butter. This simple treat enhances the flavor and texture.

Sandwiches

• Use slices of your homemade bread to create hearty sandwiches. Fill them with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal.

Bread with Dips

• Pair warm homemade bread with various dips like hummus or spinach artichoke dip. The soft texture of the bread complements creamy dips perfectly.

French Toast

• Transform leftover slices into a delicious breakfast by dipping them in an egg mixture and frying until golden. Serve with syrup or fresh fruit for a delightful morning treat.

Garlic Bread

• Spread softened butter mixed with garlic and herbs on slices of homemade bread. Bake until crispy for a savory addition to any meal.

Croutons

• Cut leftover bread into cubes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy. These make excellent croutons for salads or soups.

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How to Perfect Homemade Bread

Perfecting your homemade bread takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve bakery-quality results every time!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures better rising and fluffiness in your bread.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques to ensure accurate ratios. Too much flour can make the dough dry; too little can lead to flat bread.

• Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, which gives bread its structure. Aim for smooth and elastic dough that springs back when poked.

• Control Rising Temperature: Dough rises best in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the bowl in an oven set to low or near a warm stove.

• Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain moisture and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Bread

Homemade bread pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some favorites to complement your meal:

1. Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that enhances the flavor of both dishes, perfect for dipping!

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness alongside hearty homemade bread.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrition, balancing out the meal beautifully.

4. Chili: A warm bowl of chili is perfect for spooning up with pieces of homemade bread—ideal for chilly nights!

5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting dish that goes well with homemade bread.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains, meat, or beans make a nutritious side that pairs nicely with slices of fresh bread.

7. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette complements the heaviness of the bread without overwhelming it.

8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty option that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of homemade bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making homemade bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Not proofing the yeast: Always check if your yeast is active by proofing it in warm water. If it doesn’t get bubbly, you need new yeast.
• Using cold water: Cold water can kill the yeast. Ensure your water temperature is between 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
• Skipping the kneading process: Kneading develops gluten, which gives bread its structure. Don’t skip this step; knead for at least 4-5 minutes.
• Overloading on flour: Adding too much flour too quickly can lead to dry bread. Add flour gradually until the dough pulls away from the bowl but remains slightly sticky.
• Neglecting the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial. Don’t rush this process; let it double in size for optimal texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store homemade bread in an airtight container or bag.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing freshness.

Freezing Homemade Bread

• Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Homemade bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 15-20 seconds until soft.
• Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my homemade bread softer?

To achieve softer homemade bread, try adding an extra tablespoon of oil or butter into the dough, which enhances moisture retention.

Can I use whole wheat flour for homemade bread?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but start with half and gradually increase as whole wheat absorbs more liquid.

What is the best way to store homemade bread?

The best way to store homemade bread is in an airtight container at room temperature or wrapped tightly and frozen for longer storage.

Why did my homemade bread not rise?

If your homemade bread didn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or cold ingredients. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and proofed correctly.

How long does homemade bread take to cool before slicing?

Let your homemade bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing to prevent gummy slices.

Final Thoughts

This homemade bread recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. It makes perfect sandwiches and pairs well with soups and salads. You can customize it by adding herbs or cheese for extra flavor. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the warm aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home!