Bread Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This bread recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for bakers of all levels. You’ll love how easy it is to make with just a few basic ingredients. The crust turns out golden and crispy, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. It’s versatile, so you can enjoy it fresh, toasted, or as a sandwich base. Plus, the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen is unbeatable!
Recipe
Making homemade bread is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and yields delicious, fresh loaves. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a classic bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Serving: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
Nutrition
This bread recipe provides essential nutrients to support a balanced diet. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing fresh bread with simple, flavorful sides that make the meal feel special. A bowl of soup, like tomato or butternut squash, is always a winner, or you can’t go wrong with a charcuterie board full of cheeses and cured meats. For something lighter, I’ll toss together a bright salad or whip up a quick dip like hummus or olive tapenade.
Perfect Pairings
When I’m serving fresh bread, I love thinking about how it can shine alongside other dishes. It’s all about matching flavor profiles and creating meal concepts that complement its warmth and texture. I often pair it with a hearty soup or stew, letting the bread soak up the rich broth. For lighter meals, I’ll slice it thin and serve with a charcuterie board, letting the bread balance salty cheeses and cured meats. Breakfast is a favorite too—toast it and top with avocado or jam. Bread’s versatility makes it the perfect foundation for any meal, big or small.
Side Dish Ideas
Fresh bread doesn’t just stand alone—it’s a team player that makes every dish around it better. I love pairing sourdough with soups or stews; its tangy flavor and chewy texture soak up broths perfectly. Garlic bread, on the other hand, is a classic side for pasta or salads, adding a savory kick. I’ve found that sourdough benefits include being easier to digest, which makes it a great choice for hearty meals. For lighter options, I’ll serve fresh bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or a simple cheese board. It’s amazing how versatile bread can be!
