Classic Homemade Bread: Soft, Delicious, and Easy to Make

Classic Homemade Bread: Soft, Delicious, and Easy to Make

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes of resting)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• Dry Yeast: 10 grams (1 packet)
• Warm Water: 200 ml (1 glass)
• Flour: 720 grams (6 cups) + 120 grams (1 cup) for initial mixing
• Salt: 10 grams (1 teaspoon)
• Egg Yolk: 1
• Milk: 1 tablespoon

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water, stirring until fully dissolved.
2. Initial Mixing: Incorporate 120 grams of flour into the yeast mixture, blending until smooth. Cover the dough and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.
3. Form the Dough: Add 400 ml of warm water to the mixture, then gradually mix in 720 grams of flour and salt. Knead for 3-4 minutes until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
4. Fermentation: Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled in size. Punch down the dough, divide it into two portions, and form each into a ball. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
5. Shaping: Lightly flour your work surface, flatten the dough with your fingers, and roll it inward. Repeat with the second dough ball.
6. Final Proofing: Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray, cover, and allow it to rise for an additional 20 minutes.
7. Baking: Brush the dough with a mixture of egg yolk and milk. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.
• Pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

Cooking Tips:

• Use warm, not hot, water to properly activate the yeast.
• Avoid over-kneading to ensure the bread remains soft and light.
• If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour as needed.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Homemade bread is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the day.
• Compared to store-bought options, it contains fewer preservatives, making it a healthier choice.

Dietary Information:

• Contains gluten due to the flour used.
• Suitable for vegetarians.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bread in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s simple and easy to follow with basic ingredients.
• The results rival bakery-quality bread, offering both a soft interior and a crispy crust.
• This versatile bread is perfect for a wide variety of meals and occasions.

Conclusion:

Making this classic homemade bread is a rewarding experience. The soft, flavorful texture makes it an excellent addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create fresh, bakery-style bread in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast directly without dissolving it in water.
• What if my dough doesn’t rise? Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is at the right temperature. If it still doesn’t rise, the dough may need a warmer environment.
• Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser. You may also need to adjust the amount of water.
• How do I know when the bread is fully baked? The bread should be golden brown, and when tapped on the bottom, it should sound hollow.
• Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough? Absolutely! Incorporate herbs or cheese during the kneading process for extra flavor.
• How can I prevent the bread from being too dry? Avoid overbaking and ensure your dough has adequate moisture before baking.
• Can I make this recipe using a bread machine? Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for mixing and baking.
• What’s the best way to thaw frozen bread? Thaw at room temperature or reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
• Can I use milk instead of water? Yes, but using milk will result in a denser loaf.
• How long should I let the dough rise? The dough should double in size, which typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the room temperature.