Here’s a simple Bread Loaf recipe to make a soft, fluffy loaf of homemade bread. This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter.
Simple Bread Loaf Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the flour.
- Add the softened butter (or oil) and honey (if using). Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
- Grease a large bowl with a little oil or butter, then place the dough in the bowl. Turn it once to coat the dough in the oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm place to rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a tight cylinder or rectangle, then folding the sides in.
- Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Press it down lightly to fill the pan.
6. Second Rise (Proofing):
- Cover the loaf with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen just above the rim of the loaf pan.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
8. Bake the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- For a softer crust, you can brush the top with melted butter after baking.
9. Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, slice the bread.
Tips:
- Flour: You can substitute up to 1/2 of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade bread loaf! Whether for sandwiches or just as a snack with butter, it’s a classic comfort food.