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Homemade Classic Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 123 reviews
  • Author: Cleo
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf (approximately 12 slices) 1x

Description

This homemade bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches or as a side to any meal. The use of instant dry yeast ensures a quick rise, while the combination of butter and olive oil adds richness and prevents sticking during kneading. Enjoy fresh, warm bread straight from your oven with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 6 1/2 cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 packages Instant Dry Yeast
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Salt
  • 1 pinch Granulated Sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 Egg
  • 4 tablespoons Butter (melted)
  • 1 1/2 cups Water
  • Olive Oil (as needed for kneading)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 6 1/2 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour, 2 packages of instant dry yeast, 1 1/2 tablespoons of salt, and a pinch of granulated sugar until well combined.
  2. Add Egg: Crack and add one egg to the flour mixture, ensuring it is incorporated evenly.
  3. Melt Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat for a few seconds and add it to the bowl with the other ingredients.
  4. Add Water: Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water to the mixture to bind the dough.
  5. Mix Ingredients: Gently fold the flour into the wet ingredients until everything is well mixed but not overworked.
  6. Let Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and allow the dough to rise for 30 to 60 minutes until it has doubled in size.
  7. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 410°F (210°C) to ensure it is hot and ready when the dough is prepared.
  8. Prepare Dough for Kneading: Sprinkle flour on top of the risen dough to prevent sticking and begin kneading it.
  9. Knead Dough: Knead the dough until it is no longer sticky, adding additional flour as needed. Use olive oil on your hands to prevent the dough from sticking excessively.
  10. Shape Dough: Transfer the dough onto a parchment-lined baking pan and shape it into a smooth lump. Use a fork to pierce several holes on top for even baking.
  11. Bake Bread: Sprinkle a little more flour on top and bake in the preheated oven at 410°F (210°C) for 50 minutes until the crust is golden and firm.
  12. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your fresh homemade bread!

Notes

  • Use unbleached all-purpose flour for best texture and flavor.
  • The dough can be sticky initially but will become easier to handle after some kneading.
  • Adjust water quantity slightly if the dough feels too dry or too wet.
  • Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for a light, fluffy texture.
  • Adding olive oil to your hands during kneading helps prevent sticking without adding extra flour.
  • For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 2-3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: homemade bread, bread recipe, easy bread, yeast bread, baking bread, soft bread loaf

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Find it online: https://cleobrixton.com/homemade-classic-bread-recipe/