Name: Easy Irresistible 30-Minute Homemade Bread Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour or bread flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 2 tablespoons sugar or honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 ¼ cups warm water (100-110°F / 37-43°C); 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Making homemade bread is simpler than you might think, and this recipe delivers a soft, golden loaf in about 30 minutes of active time. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience for rising, you can bake irresistibly fresh bread perfect for any meal.

A close-up view of a golden-brown braided bread loaf with a shiny, slightly crispy crust. The bread shows soft, airy, and fluffy white inside with a slightly glossy texture. The loaf rests on a wooden cutting board, with a blurred background showing a small white bowl containing butter. The light reflects softly on the crust, highlighting the texture and braid pattern. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
1 ¼ cups warm water (100-110°F / 37-43°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast by combining warm water, yeast, and sugar or honey in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Stir in the flour, salt, and melted butter or oil until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
Step 4: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours, until doubled in size.
Step 5: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Cover the dough and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, brush the loaf with melted butter right after baking.
Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the bread on a preheated baking stone or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. To refresh slightly stale bread, warm slices in a toaster or oven for a few minutes. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a freshly baked loaf of bread with a shiny golden-brown crust on top, showing a braided pattern with soft, glossy sections. The inside of the bread is visible on one side, revealing a light, fluffy, and airy texture with many small holes. The loaf sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred background that has a brown wooden tone and part of a yellow object. The lighting highlights the glossy crust and soft inside of the bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use slightly less instant yeast and add it directly to the flour without activating it in water first.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, the yeast may be expired or the water too hot or cold. Make sure yeast is fresh and water temperature is between 100-110°F (37-43°C) to activate properly.