Quick & Easy Bread Recipe That Beat Store-Bought Every Time
The scent of freshly baked bread drifting through the home creates a comfort no packaged loaf can match. A soft crust with a tender center brings pride with every slice made by your own hands. It feels rewarding to know that something so wholesome can be made without fancy equipment or hours of waiting.
This bread stays light yet sturdy enough for sandwiches or toast. Each bite carries warmth that reminds you of bakery shelves without the long lines or extra cost. Once you try this method you may never look at store bought bread the same way again.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per serving |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 3 cups | 240 |
| Warm water | 1 cup | 0 |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | 45 |
| Instant yeast | 1 packet | 20 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 80 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Activate the Yeast
Pour warm water into a bowl and stir in sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it rest for a few minutes until it turns frothy. This shows that the yeast is active and ready to work.
Form the Dough
Add flour salt and olive oil into the yeast mixture and mix with a spoon or hands. Combine until it comes together into a rough dough. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Set it in a warm spot and allow it to rise until doubled in size. This usually takes about an hour depending on room temperature.
Shape and Bake
Punch the dough lightly to release air and shape it into a loaf or round ball. Place it in a baking pan and let it rest for a short second rise. Bake in a preheated oven at medium heat for about twenty five minutes until golden on top.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Brush the top with melted butter after baking for a glossy soft crust. Mix in herbs or grated cheese for a savory twist. Sprinkle sesame or oats on top before baking for a rustic bakery look.
Nutritional Information
Homemade bread often carries fewer additives than packaged options which makes it a smarter choice for regular meals. Each slice delivers steady carbohydrates that fuel the body without heaviness. Olive oil adds a gentle dose of healthy fat without overpowering the overall taste.
It suits breakfast lunch or dinner without guilt. Pairing it with eggs jam soups or salads turns it into a wholesome meal within moments.
Serving Suggestion
Serve warm with a thick spread of butter that melts the moment it touches the surface. It also makes excellent toast with honey or garlic butter for a quick snack.
Cut it into cubes and toss with olive oil to create crunchy croutons for soups and salads.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Wrap the bread in a clean cloth or store in an airtight container once fully cooled. Keep it at room temperature for two days or refrigerate for longer storage. Toasting it before serving brings back its fresh feel instantly.
Conclusion
Homemade bread proves that comfort does not require expensive tools or complicated methods. With simple ingredients and a little patience it turns into a loaf that beats any store bought option without effort. Once this recipe becomes part of your routine it will stay in your kitchen forever.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all purpose flour?
Yes whole wheat flour can be used but the texture may turn slightly denser so a mix of both gives the best result.
Q2. Why did my bread not rise properly?
The water may have been too hot or too cold which affects yeast activity so always use warm water that feels gentle to the touch.
Q3. Can I bake this dough in a skillet instead of a loaf pan?
Yes a skillet works well and gives a lovely rustic shape just make sure it is well greased before placing the dough.
