Bake the Easiest Yeast Bread: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Introduction

This simple yeast bread recipe is perfect for beginners looking to bake fresh homemade bread. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll create a soft, golden loaf that’s delicious on its own or as a sandwich base.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Step 2: Add the salt and olive oil (if using) to the mixture and stir to combine. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Step 3: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Allow the dough to rise for about one hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Lightly flour a surface and turn the dough out onto it. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch bread pan. Cover the pan and let the dough rise for an additional 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375 °F.
5. Step 5: Place the bread in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Step 6: Remove the freshly baked bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute olive oil with melted butter or add herbs like rosemary into the dough.
• Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour can give your loaf a chewier texture.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter right after baking.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, freeze the loaf wrapped tightly in foil or plastic for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or warm whole loaf in a 350 °F oven for 10-15 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. It doesn’t need to be dissolved in water first; simply mix it directly with the flour and other dry ingredients.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your water is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Also check that your yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired. Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free spot for rising.

Bake the Easiest Yeast Bread: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 69 reviews

• Author: Harper
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 1 pound) 1x

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Description

This simple and delicious yeast bread recipe yields a soft, golden loaf perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy baking project for beginners and bread lovers alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix Ingredients and Form Dough: Add salt and olive oil (if using) to the yeast mixture and stir well. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Allow the dough to rise for about one hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough: Gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Lightly flour a surface and turn the dough out onto it. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch bread pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Bake the Bread: Place the bread pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Cool the Loaf: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For a crispier crust, you can brush the loaf with water before baking or place a shallow pan of water on the oven bottom to create steam.
• Olive oil is optional but adds a subtle richness to the bread.
• Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• This bread freezes well; slice before freezing for easy thawing.
• Letting the bread cool completely before slicing prevents a gummy texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: easy yeast bread, homemade bread, simple bread recipe, basic bread, baking bread, yeast loaf