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Easy Homemade Bread Recipe: Soft, Chewy, and Foolproof


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy homemade bread recipe yields a soft, chewy loaf with a golden crust. Perfect for beginners, it requires minimal ingredients and effort.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water (110–115°F)

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or other neutral oil)

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour


Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  • Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

  • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  • Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

  • Cover and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown.

 

  • Remove from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.

This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American