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






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.


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