Homemade Bread

This soft, fluffy, and golden homemade bread is a classic you’ll want to bake again and again. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create two loaves of warm, comforting bread that taste better than anything store-bought. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water (105–115°F / 474g)
• 1 Tbsp. active dry yeast*
• ¼ cup honey or sugar (85g honey or 50g sugar)
• 2 tsp. salt
• 2 Tbsp. oil (canola or vegetable) (30 ml)
• 4–5½ cups all-purpose or bread flour* (500–688g)

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Instructions

1. Proof the yeast
   In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar or honey. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy and bubbly. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast is inactive — start over with fresh yeast.
2. Mix the dough
   Add the remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix to combine.
   Gradually add another cup of flour, then continue adding ½ cup at a time until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. It should be smooth and elastic, slightly tacky to the touch but not sticky.
3. Knead
   Knead the dough for 4–5 minutes on medium speed (or by hand on a lightly floured surface for 5–8 minutes) until soft and elastic.
4. First rise
   Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place the dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size — about 1½ hours.
5. Shape the loaves
   Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans (optional: line the bottoms with parchment paper).
   Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles, divide it in half, and shape each piece into a long log. Place the dough logs into the pans.
6. Second rise
   Cover the pans loosely with a dry towel or lightly greased plastic wrap. Let rise for 45–60 minutes, or until the dough rises about 1 inch above the rim of the pans.
7. Bake
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30–33 minutes, until golden brown. Tap the top gently — it should sound hollow when done.
8. Cool and store
   Remove the loaves from the pans and place on a wire rack. Brush the tops with butter while warm for a soft, shiny crust.
   Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
   Store in an airtight bag or container for 2–3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic, homemade flavor with a tender crumb and golden crust.
• Uses pantry staples—no special ingredients required.
• Makes two loaves—perfect for sharing or freezing.
• Versatile: great for toast, sandwiches, or simply warm with butter.
• Beginner-friendly with step-by-step guidance for perfect results.

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Tips

• Make sure your water is warm (not hot) — between 105–115°F — to activate yeast without killing it.
• Don’t add too much flour; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot such as inside a turned-off oven with the light on.
• Brush with melted butter after baking for a soft crust, or leave plain for a crustier texture.
• Slice with a serrated knife once the bread has cooled slightly to prevent tearing.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Sweeten it up: Use honey for a slightly sweet, floral flavor, or sugar for a more neutral taste.
• Add texture: Mix in rolled oats, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds for a hearty loaf.
• Whole wheat version: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
• Dairy-free: Use vegetable oil and skip the butter topping.
• Garlic or herb bread: Add 1 tsp. garlic powder or dried herbs to the dough for a savory twist.

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FAQs

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
Yes! Mix and knead by hand — it just takes a bit more time and effort.

How do I know if I’ve added enough flour?
When the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels soft and elastic (slightly tacky but not sticky), it’s ready.

Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why didn’t my bread rise?
Check that your yeast is fresh and that your water wasn’t too hot or too cold.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast.
• Use it for sandwiches, grilled cheese, or French toast.
• Cube and toast leftovers for homemade croutons or bread pudding.
• Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a comforting meal.