Easy Homemade Bread – Soft, Delicious & Foolproof
Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. This easy homemade bread recipe is designed for beginners and seasoned bakers alike—simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a beautifully soft crumb every time. Whether served warm with butter, dipped in soup, or used for sandwiches, this loaf will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients & Quantities
800 g wheat flour
540 g water (lukewarm for best results)
25 g salt
10–12 g instant yeast (or 20 g fresh yeast)
1 tbsp sugar (optional, helps yeast activate)
2 tbsp olive oil or softened butter (optional, adds softness)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast (if using active dry or fresh yeast):
Mix the yeast, sugar, and 100 g of the lukewarm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture (or instant yeast directly), the remaining water, and optional oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead:
Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or in a mixer for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and rest for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough, shape into a loaf or divide into rolls. Place into a greased loaf pan or on a baking tray.
6. Second Rise:
Cover again and let rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.
7. Bake:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
8. Cool:
Let the bread cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Bread is one of the oldest prepared foods in the world, dating back over 10,000 years. Every culture has its own variation—flatbreads, sourdoughs, enriched loaves—but this simple wheat bread represents the universal foundation of nourishment. Easy homemade bread like this is often associated with comfort, hospitality, and the tradition of sharing food with family and neighbors.
Description
This bread has a soft interior and a light, slightly chewy crumb with a golden, crisp exterior. It slices beautifully and stays fresh for days. Its neutral flavor makes it perfect for sweet and savory pairings—from butter and jam to sandwiches or toast.
Optional Additions
Seeds: sesame, sunflower, chia or flax for texture
Herbs: rosemary, thyme, oregano
Sweet touch: 2–3 tbsp honey or sugar
Enriched variation: add 1 egg + 2 tbsp butter for a softer brioche-like loaf
Whole grain twist: replace 150–200 g of the flour with whole wheat
Tips for Success
Use lukewarm water, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Knead until the dough passes the “windowpane test”—stretch a small piece until translucent.
Allow proper rising time; dough should double, not just rise slightly.
Place a small tray of water in the oven for a steam boost to make a crisper crust.
Always cool the bread before slicing to avoid gummy texture.
Nutritional Information (approx. per slice, 1/12 of loaf)
Calories: ~170
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 1–2 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sodium: moderate (adjust based on salt preference)
Values vary depending on additional ingredients.
Conclusion
This simple bread recipe proves that homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. With a few pantry staples and a little patience, you can create a fresh, warm loaf that rivals bakery bread.
Recommendation
Enjoy this bread fresh on the day it’s baked, or slice and freeze for quick toast throughout the week. Pair it with soups, spreads, or your favorite breakfast toppings.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Baking your own bread is a nourishing act—both for the body and for the senses. This recipe allows you to enjoy pure, wholesome ingredients without additives. It’s a healthful indulgence that connects you to tradition, comfort, and the joy of creating something beautiful with your own hands.