How to Make Homemade Bread – The Easiest Recipe for Beginners!

Learning how to make homemade bread is like opening the door to a whole new world of warmth, patience, and simple joy. For centuries, bread has been at the heart of family tables across cultures—a symbol of nourishment, care, and togetherness. The smell of bread baking in the oven is universal comfort, instantly making a house feel like home. And the best part? You don’t need fancy tools, years of experience, or complicated techniques to get started.

This recipe is designed especially for beginners. It’s forgiving, straightforward, and built to help you succeed on your very first loaf. No sourdough starters, no confusing steps—just basic pantry ingredients transformed into soft, golden bread with a tender crumb and crisp crust. Each step is gentle and intentional, guiding you through the process with confidence rather than stress. 🙌

Making bread by hand also reconnects us with traditional cooking methods—mixing, kneading, waiting, and trusting the process. It teaches patience and rewards it generously. Whether you’re baking for your family, learning a new skill, or simply craving the satisfaction of slicing into a warm loaf you made yourself, this recipe will become a trusted favorite. Let’s slow down, roll up our sleeves, and bake something truly special.

Ingredients:

Basic Bread Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1½ teaspoons salt

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and gently stir. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work. 🫧
2. Mix the Dough: Add olive oil (or butter) and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes, pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand, folding it back, and turning. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky—not sticky. ✋
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Shape it into a loaf by rolling it tightly and tucking the ends underneath.
6. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake: Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the crumb set properly.

Notes:

• If the dough feels too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
• For a softer crust, brush the warm loaf with melted butter after baking.
• Store bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutritional Information:

Homemade bread provides simple carbohydrates for energy and contains fewer preservatives than store-bought versions. Using basic ingredients allows you to control salt, sugar, and fats, making it a wholesome choice for everyday meals. Pair it with soups, spreads, or enjoy it fresh with butter for a truly satisfying experience.

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: ~2½ hours
⚡ Calories per slice: ~150 | 🍽️ Servings: 12 slices

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Bon appétit and happy baking!