Print

Effortless Homemade Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 540 reviews

This Effortless Homemade Bread recipe guides you through making a simple, delicious loaf from scratch using basic pantry ingredients. With minimal kneading and an easy rise, this bread has a crisp golden crust and a soft, airy interior—a perfect companion for any meal or for sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the bowl with dry ingredients.
  3. Mix the dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, stir until the mixture forms a sticky, cohesive dough.
  4. First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and leave it in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size, which allows fermentation and flavor development.
  5. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the bread.
  6. Shape the loaf: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf without deflating it excessively.
  7. Prepare for baking: Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  8. Score the loaf: Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow slashes across the top of the loaf, allowing steam to escape and the bread to expand properly during baking.
  9. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing, which helps set the crumb structure.

Notes

  • Use warm water (about 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • You may substitute bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • Ensure the dough doubles in size during the rise for the best texture.
  • For a crisper crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven to create steam while baking.
  • Store leftover bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crustiness.

Keywords: homemade bread, easy bread recipe, no knead bread, bakery style loaf, simple bread

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/effortless-homemade-bread-recipe/