Description
This homemade bread features a beautifully golden crust that crackles when you slice into it, revealing a soft, creamy interior that melts in your mouth. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, inviting you to enjoy its warm, comforting flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
- Flour: 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- Water: 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- Salt: 2 teaspoons sea salt
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring gently.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until it rises above the pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Notes
- This bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: breads
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1 oz)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Saturated Fat: 0 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 gram
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Keywords: Homemade Bread, Easy Bread Recipe, Freshly Baked Bread, Golden Crust Bread, Soft Bread, Yeast Bread, Artisan Bread, Bread Baking, Comfort Food, Homemade Loaf, Baking at Home, Simple Bread Recipe, Bread for Sandwiches, Classic Bread Recipe