There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Classic Homemade Bread! This simple, no-fail recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or slathering with butter.
Classic Homemade Bread Recipe
(Makes 1 loaf)
Ingredients:
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3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
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1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
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2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
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2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
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1 ½ tsp salt
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2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions:
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Activate the yeast:
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In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Make the dough:
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In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and oil.
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Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand (or with a stand mixer + dough hook) for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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First rise:
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours (or until doubled in size).
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Shape & second rise:
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Punch down the dough, then shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
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Bake:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
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Optional: Brush with melted butter after baking for a soft crust.
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Cool:
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Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can resist slicing it warm!).
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Tips for Success:
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Yeast check: If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be dead—start over.
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Kneading: Dough should pass the “windowpane test” (stretch a small piece thinly without tearing).
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Customize: Add herbs, garlic, seeds, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar.
Would you like a whole-wheat version or a crusty artisan-style loaf? Happy baking! 🍞✨