Homemade Bread Recipe – Soft, Fluffy, and Absolutely Irresistible! 🍞
There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread filling your kitchen—it’s warm, comforting, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, this homemade bread recipe guarantees a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a spread of butter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Uses simple pantry ingredients with minimal effort.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture – No more dry, store-bought bread!
- No Special Equipment Needed – Just your hands, a bowl, and an oven.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 cup warm water (not too hot, just slightly warm)
- 2 tsp sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 1 tsp salt (for flavor balance)
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (adds softness and richness)
Structions
- Activate the Yeast – In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial for a good rise!
- Mix & Knead – Add flour, salt, and oil. Mix everything together, then knead for 8-10 minutes until you get a soft, elastic dough. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
- First Rise – Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Loaf – Punch down the dough gently to remove air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
- Second Rise – Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes until it puffs up beautifully.
- Bake – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The top should be firm, and the bottom should sound hollow when tapped.
- Cool & Enjoy – Let the bread cool before slicing (if you can resist!). Spread some butter, drizzle honey, or make the perfect sandwich!
Pro Tips for the Best Bread
✔ Use warm water (not hot!) – Too hot can kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it.
✔ Knead properly – The dough should be soft and elastic, which helps create that fluffy texture.
✔ Don’t rush the rising time – Letting it rest gives the best texture and flavor.
✔ For a golden crust, brush the top with butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
This homemade bread is so soft, fresh, and delicious—you might never buy store-bought bread again! Enjoy every warm, fluffy bite! 😋
