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The Joy of Homemade Bread: A Tradition That Brings Comfort

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh bread filling the house, making it feel warm, inviting, and comforting. This easy homemade bread recipe is the perfect way to indulge in the simple pleasure of baking from scratch. With minimal ingredients and just a few easy steps, you’ll have a soft, golden loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Bread
Cuisine: International
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 375 ml 1½ cups warm water
  • ½ tablespoon 7 g sugar
  • 7 g about 2¼ teaspoons dry yeast
  • 500 g 4 cups flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon 6 g salt
  • 2 tablespoons 30 ml sunflower oil

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. The mixture should become frothy as the yeast activates.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the sunflower oil. Stir the ingredients together until they begin to form a dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
  4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf by folding the edges inwards and rolling it into a log shape. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
  7. Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Cool and Slice: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm with your favorite spread or topping.

Notes

  • Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or plastic bag to keep it fresh for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it by slicing it first and wrapping it in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Optional Additions: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs, spices, or even shredded cheese to the dough before baking. Rosemary, garlic, or cheddar cheese are great choices to elevate the flavor of the bread.
  • Troubleshooting: If your bread doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Always check the expiration date on your yeast or test it with warm water and sugar before starting.