Simple Homemade Bread
A basic homemade bread recipe using yeast, suitable for beginners. This recipe allows for a quick rise and bake, making it ideal for busy schedules. It can be made with all-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
Ingredients
- 0.25 oz Active dry yeast (Equivalent to 1 cake of compressed yeast)
- 0.25 cup Lukewarm water
- 6 cups All-purpose flour (Or use 1 cup all-purpose and the rest whole wheat)
- 3 tablespoons Molasses (If using whole wheat flour)
Instructions
- 1In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour (or the mixture of all-purpose and whole wheat flour) with the yeast mixture. If using whole wheat flour, add molasses. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- 4Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm water bath (95-100°F) can be used to maintain a consistent temperature.
- 5Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- 6Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until the dough has risen above the edge of the pan.
- 7Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 8Remove the bread from the loaf pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.