Homemade bread

Here’s a simple and classic homemade bread recipe — soft inside, golden on the outside, and perfect for sandwiches or toast. 🍞

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🍞 Old-Fashioned Homemade Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 2 tbsp sugar or honey

• 2 tbsp melted butter or oil

• 1½ tsp salt

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

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🔪 Instructions

1. Activate the yeast:
   In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
   Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy on top.

2. Mix the dough:
   Add melted butter (or oil) and salt, then gradually stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead:
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   (If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook on medium speed for about 6 minutes.)

4. First rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the loaf:
   Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf.
   Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second rise:
   Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises about 1 inch above the pan’s edge.

7. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Cool:
   Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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🧈 Tips & Variations

• Brush the top with melted butter right after baking for a soft crust.

• Add 1–2 tbsp honey for a sweeter, richer flavor.

• Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier version.

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Would you like me to give you a no-knead overnight version or a soft sandwich bread version next?