Imagine filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, warm and golden, straight from your own oven. Forget store-bought loaves that lack soul and flavor - this simple bread recipe will transform you from a casual cook into a bread-making maestro! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home baker, our foolproof method will have you creating delicious, artisan-style bread that will make your family and friends wonder if you've secretly trained in a professional bakery.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: General
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Flour
- Yeast
- Water
- Salt
- Olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, creating a well in the center.
- Activate the yeast by mixing it with lukewarm water (around 110°F/43°C) and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbling.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the center of the flour well and gradually incorporate the flour from the sides.
- Drizzle olive oil into the mixture and begin kneading the dough on a clean, lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles and shape it into your desired form (loaf, rolls, or flatbread).
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and let the shaped dough rest and rise again for 15-20 minutes.
- Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial - ensure your water is exactly lukewarm (110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast perfectly.
- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten and create a smooth, elastic texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal volume and texture.
- Don't rush the rising process - patience creates better bread.
- Score the top of the dough to allow steam escape and create beautiful bread patterns.
- Use a wire rack for cooling to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Experiment with adding herbs or seeds to customize your bread's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
