Are you ready to bake the most delicious, comforting loaf of bread you've ever tasted? Forget those bland, store-bought loaves! Today, we're sharing a treasured family recipe – Grandma's secret to perfectly crusty, fluffy homemade bread. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, requiring minimal equipment and delivering maximum flavor. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking and the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen! This is more than just a food recipe; it's a journey back to simpler times, a taste of home, and a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture.
Step 3: Add the Flour: Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little messy!
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: 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 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. A slightly warmer oven (turned off) can help speed up the process.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oblong loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 7: Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake the Bread: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accuracy.
Step 9: 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 inside to finish baking and prevents a soggy bottom. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Baking the Perfect Loaf:
- Water Temperature: Using water that's too hot will kill the yeast, while water that's too cold will prevent it from activating properly.
- Flour Consistency: The amount of flour needed might vary slightly depending on the humidity and type of flour used.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf of bread.
- Proper Rising: Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) to the dough.
- Garlic Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious homemade bread is a fantastic addition to any meal, perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoying on its own. Enjoy the delightful taste of Grandma's legacy!