Here’s a straightforward recipe for homemade bread — soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathering with butter. This is a classic white bread recipe that’s easy to follow.
Homemade Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (may need a little more or less)
Instructions
1. Activate the yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add melted butter and yeast mixture.
- Stir until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Add a little flour if dough is sticky.
4. First rise
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat.
- Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
- Let rise 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
5. Shape the loaf
- Punch down dough to release air.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second rise
- Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes, until doubled.
7. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Optional: Brush the top with melted butter right after baking for a soft crust.
8. Cool
- Let bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips
- For a slightly sweeter bread, increase sugar to 3 tablespoons.
- Add herbs, garlic, or cheese for a flavored variation.
- Store at room temperature in a plastic bag for 2–3 days or freeze for longer storage.
I can also give you a no-knead version that’s almost hands-off and has a rustic crust — takes longer to rise but is incredibly easy. Do you want that version?
