No-Fail Homemade Bread

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Kitchen towel
• Oven

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500 g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing)

• Melted butter for brushing after baking
• Oats or sesame seeds for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. Mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. Add softened butter and salt.
2. Gradually stir in the flour until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead

1. Transfer to a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. (Or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6 minutes.)

Step 4: First Rise

1. Place the dough into an oiled bowl.
2. Cover with a towel.
3. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape

1. Punch down the dough gently.
2. Shape into a loaf.
3. Place into a greased loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Cover again.
2. Allow to rise for 30–45 minutes until the dough rises about 1 inch above the pan.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30–35 minutes.
2. The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Step 8: Finish

1. Remove from the pan immediately.
2. Brush with melted butter if desired.
3. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 165 · Protein: 5 g · Carbohydrates: 31 g · Fat: 2.5 g · Saturated Fat: 0.4 g · Fiber: 1.5 g · Sugar: 2 g · Sodium: 240 mg · Calcium: 10 mg · Iron: 1.6 mg