Hello, bread enthusiasts! Have you ever tried making bread at home only to find the process frustrating? Fear not, because I’m sharing the only bread recipe I’ve ever been successful with. This recipe is quick, easy, and consistently delivers soft, delicious bread that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you’re new to bread-making or looking for a reliable recipe, this one will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the details!
Introduction
Baking bread at home is a tradition that connects us to generations past. The aroma of fresh bread filling your kitchen is one of life’s simple pleasures. But for many, including myself, bread-making can feel like an intimidating task. After many trials and errors, I finally found this recipe that has been my go-to for perfect bread every time. It’s straightforward, requires minimal ingredients, and produces two fluffy loaves that are perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying warm with butter.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. Just follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have golden, soft, and flavorful bread on your table in no time!
Ingredients
To make two loaves of this delightful bread, you will need:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
These simple ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. The combination of sugar and warm water helps activate the yeast, while the oil keeps the bread moist and soft. The salt and flour round out the basic elements needed for the perfect loaf.
How to Make This Bread
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this bread:
- Activate the Yeast: Begin by dissolving the sugar in 2 cups of warm water. The water should be warm to the touch but not too hot, around 105°F to 110°F. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is called proofing the yeast and ensures your bread will rise properly.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast is proofed, stir in the vegetable oil. This step helps integrate the oil evenly into the dough and adds moisture to the bread.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to distribute the salt evenly, as this enhances the flavor of the bread and strengthens the dough.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula works best for mixing. Once the dough becomes too stiff to stir, use your hands to combine the ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for 3-5 minutes. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness. To knead, press the dough down and away from you with the heel of your hand, then fold it over and repeat.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, turning it over to coat both sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for one hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaves: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it in half and shape each portion into a loaf. Place the loaves into greased bread pans.
- Second Rise: Cover the bread pans with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the loaves for approximately 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Finish with Butter: Remove the loaves from the oven and immediately brush the tops with butter. This adds flavor and gives the crust a beautiful shine. Let the loaves cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or store for later use!
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Expired yeast can prevent the dough from rising properly.
Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
Create a Warm Environment for Rising: If your kitchen is cold, place the dough near a warm appliance or in an oven with the light turned on (but not heated).
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread during the last 5 minutes of baking. Overbaking can result in a dry loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Use it for classic sandwiches, French toast, or as a side with soups and stews. Warm slices with butter and jam make for a comforting breakfast, while toasted slices are perfect for avocado toast or bruschetta. Its mild flavor and soft texture make it an all-purpose bread that complements both sweet and savory toppings.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
This bread is a balanced choice for everyday meals, providing energy from carbohydrates and a small amount of protein and fat. For a healthier option, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Storage and Leftovers
Storing: Wrap the cooled loaves in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven or toaster for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes! Use the dough hook attachment to mix and knead the dough. This saves time and effort.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends, but the texture may differ since gluten plays a key role in traditional bread.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute melted butter, olive oil, or coconut oil for vegetable oil. Each will add its own unique flavor to the bread.
Can I add extra ingredients?
Absolutely! Add chopped herbs, shredded cheese, or even cinnamon and raisins for a flavored loaf.
Why is my bread dense?
Dense bread is often caused by under-kneading, not letting the dough rise long enough, or using water that’s too hot and kills the yeast.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this bread recipe, you might also like these:
- Homemade Dinner Rolls
- Classic Sourdough Bread
- Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread
- Quick and Easy Garlic Breadsticks
Conclusion
This quick and easy bread recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it does in yours as well. Whether you’re a novice or experienced baker, this recipe is sure to deliver delicious results every time. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have soft, fluffy loaves that are perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy baking, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread!