Are you dreaming of that warm, crusty loaf of bread, freshly baked and filled with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness? Forget store-bought! This recipe, inspired by the classic Better Homes and Gardens style, guides you to baking perfection, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. It's a simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe for delicious, healthy homemade bread that's perfect for any occasion. Let's get started on this easy recipe for a quick dinner side or a delightful snack!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Cornmeal or flour, for dusting the baking sheet (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating a light and airy loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the salt and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry about perfection at this stage; a slightly sticky dough is expected.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier, more textured loaf. This is a great stress reliever too!
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (with the light on) is a great place for this!
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. Place the dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal or flour. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Use a bread thermometer for accuracy; the internal temperature should reach 200°F (93°C).
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy. Savor the delicious aroma and taste of your homemade bread!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Bread:
- Water Temperature: Ensure your water is the correct temperature (105-115°F) for optimal yeast activation. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will slow down the process.
- Flour Type: You can experiment with different flour types, such as whole wheat or bread flour, for variations in texture and flavor.
- Kneading Technique: Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty! Proper kneading is crucial for a good texture.
Delicious Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the dough.
- Garlic Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add ½ cup of raisins, cranberries, or chopped nuts to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 2-4g
This easy bread recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking and the delicious results! It's the perfect recipe for anyone looking to make simple, delicious and healthy dishes. This recipe is definitely one of the best recipes you can find for homemade bread!