Baking Basics: Your First Easy Bread Recipe (With Pro Tips!)
Baking bread at home can seem intimidating, but with this easy bread recipe for beginners, you'll be able to make a delicious loaf with minimal effort. This recipe requires only a few basic ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for those new to baking.
Ingredients
To get started, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
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Preparing the Dough
Activating the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your bread rise.
Mixing the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Stir the mixture using a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. This dough will be quite loose, but that’s perfectly normal for this beginner-friendly recipe.
Kneading the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Letting the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Baking the Bread
Preheating the Oven
While the dough is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Baking Time
Once the oven is ready, place the loaf inside and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling and Serving
After baking, transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the bread finish cooking inside and makes slicing easier.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast for the best rise.
- Don’t rush the rising process: Letting the dough rise fully is key to light and airy bread.
- Experiment with flavors: Once you master this basic recipe, try adding herbs, cheese, or nuts for extra flavor.
Enjoy Your Homemade Bread!
With this easy bread recipe for beginners, you’ll be able to bake fresh, homemade bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoyed with a pat of butter. Happy baking!
Enjoy Watching This Video with a Similar Recipe
Source: Deep South Texas
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