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Easy Bread Recipe for Beginners – Perfect Every Time

Discover how to bake soft, fluffy homemade bread with this simple step-by-step guide. Using just six basic ingredients, this foolproof recipe is perfect for beginners and produces a golden, delicious loaf every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf (24 slices)
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 135
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water 100–110°F / 37–43°C
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 2 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil

Method
 

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar (or honey). Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dough: Add flour, salt, and melted butter or oil. Stir until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes by hand (or 5–6 minutes with a mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, until doubled in size.
  5. Shape Loaf: Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  6. Second Rise: Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes, until dough rises about 1 inch above the rim.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. Cool: Let loaf cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For best results, ensure water temperature is between 100–110°F. Too-hot water kills yeast, while too-cold water slows fermentation. Kneading and patience during rising are key to a light, fluffy loaf.