This Homemade Bread is as simple as it gets — with just four basic ingredients, you can create a soft, delicious loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or served alongside soups and stews. The best part? It’s made with instant yeast (or active dry yeast) and requires minimal prep time. With a golden crust and soft, airy crumb, this bread is everything homemade bread should be!
Servings & Timing
Yield: 1 loaf
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 1–1.5 hours (includes rise time)
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 1.5–2 hours
Ingredients List
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 2 cups warm water (about 110°F, not hot)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Water
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, bake it for 25–30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Additional Notes
- If you’re using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water along with a pinch of sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy before mixing with the flour and salt.
- Bread flour will give the loaf a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works just as well.
- For a soft crust, you can brush the top of the loaf with butter immediately after baking.
Dietary Info (Approximate per slice, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 1g
Vegetarian, low-fat (if using skim milk).
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Combine dry ingredients
Step 2: Add warm water and mix
Step 3: Knead the dough until smooth
Step 4: Let dough rise for 1–1.5 hours
Step 5: Shape the dough and let it rise again
Step 6: Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes
Step 7: Cool and slice
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Flour
- You can use bread flour for a chewier, more structured loaf or all-purpose flour for a softer texture.
Instant Yeast
- Instant yeast works best for a quicker rise. If you use active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water first and let it sit until bubbly before adding to the flour.
Warm Water
- Ensure the water is warm (but not hot) to activate the yeast. Too hot, and it will kill the yeast.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Herbed Bread
- Add rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.
Cheese-Topped Loaf
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the loaf during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with butter, jam, or cheese for a simple yet satisfying snack.
- Use for sandwiches, toasts, or open-faced melts.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Room Temperature
- Store the bread in a paper bag or bread box for 3–4 days.
Refrigerator
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer
- Slice the bread and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Toast slices directly from frozen.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this bread without an egg?
A: Yes, you can omit the egg for a vegan version, though the texture may differ slightly.
Q: How do I know when the bread is done?
A: The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, and you can use a thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 190°F.
Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but you’ll need to add xanthan gum to help the bread hold together.
Optional Personal Story
This Homemade Bread reminds me of lazy Sundays, fresh from the oven, the smell filling the house. It’s the bread I make when I want something simple, comforting, and satisfying, with just a handful of ingredients.
Call-to-Action
Tried this Homemade Bread?
Save it, share it, and let me know — what did you pair it with?
