There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked bread, and this simple recipe will have you enjoying homemade bread in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is quick, easy, and yields soft, fluffy bread that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 800 grams of flour (all-purpose or bread flour)
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 grams of dry yeast
- 500 ml of warm water (not hot, about 40°C/105°F)
- 30 ml of olive oil
- Sunflower oil (for greasing)
- Milk (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work.
- Mix the Dough
- Add the olive oil, flour, and salt to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- First Rise
- Grease a large bowl with sunflower oil and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough and shape it into your desired form (loaf, rolls, or freeform). Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking sheet or loaf pan.
- Second Rise
- Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) during this time.
- Brush with Milk
- Lightly brush the top of the dough with milk for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the Bread
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your warm, homemade bread with butter, jam, or your favorite spread!
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, use olive oil instead of sunflower oil for greasing.
- Add herbs, seeds, or grated cheese to the dough for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Double-check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s active.
Enjoy baking this easy, delightful bread and make every meal feel extra special!