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Simple Bread

This easy homemade bread recipe yields a soft and fluffy loaf that's perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathering with butter.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bakery
Cuisine: Bread
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 600 ml 600 ml warm water Ensure your water is warm (not hot), around 110°F (43°C), to activate the yeast effectively.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon sugar Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon dry yeast Make sure it’s within its expiration date for the best rise.
  • 3 cups 3 cups plain flour
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Gradually add the plain flour in two batches (1.5 cups each), mixing thoroughly after each addition to avoid lumps.
  3. Sprinkle the salt over the dough and mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel, then let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, turning the dough a few times while keeping it covered.
  5. Generously flour a clean work surface. Turn out the dough and knead for 2-3 minutes until the texture is smooth and slightly sticky.
  6. Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a towel. Let it rest for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Dust the dough with flour again, flip it over, and smooth the top.
  8. Shape the bread as desired on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Cover the shaped bread and let it rise for 40 minutes. For a nice finish, refrigerate it for 20 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 230°C (446°F) and make a shallow cut across the top of the bread just before baking.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  3. After 15 minutes, reduce the temperature to 180°C (356°F) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
  4. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the dough when mixing. Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or bread flour, to change the texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To refresh stale bread, lightly mist it with water and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.