World’s Easiest Yeast Bread: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Introduction

This world’s easiest yeast bread recipe is perfect for beginners and anyone craving fresh homemade bread without fuss. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a soft, golden loaf ready in just over an hour. It’s a wonderful base for sandwiches or a warm accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine warm water and sugar in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Step 2: Stir in the salt and olive oil, if using, to the yeast mixture.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition until the dough becomes shaggy and starts pulling away from the sides.
4. Step 4: (Optional) Knead the dough gently for 1–2 minutes to develop structure.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Step 6: Punch down the dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
7. Step 7: Allow the dough to rise again for 30 minutes in the loaf pan.
8. Step 8: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30 minutes, until the crust is golden and it sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Step 9: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the top with melted butter right after baking.
• Make sure the water is warm but not hot, as temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast.

Storage

Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, toast slices or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Since it doesn’t require proofing, mix it directly with the dry ingredients and reduce the warm water slightly. The rising times remain the same.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

If the dough doesn’t double in size, it could be due to inactive yeast or the water temperature being too hot or cold. Make sure to use fresh yeast and water at about 110°F (43°C) to activate it properly.

World’s Easiest Yeast Bread: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 136 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x

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Description

This simple and foolproof yeast bread recipe yields a soft, golden loaf with a crispy crust. Using basic pantry ingredients and minimal kneading, this bread is perfect for beginner bakers looking for an easy homemade bread that tastes amazing every time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

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Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: Combine warm water and sugar in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Add Salt and Oil: Stir in the salt and olive oil (if using) into the foamy yeast mixture to prepare the dough base.
3. Add Flour: Gradually add the flour one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the dough forms a shaggy texture, which means it’s coming together.
4. Knead Dough (Optional): Gently knead the dough for 1–2 minutes to develop gluten and improve texture.
5. First Rise: Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape and Place in Pan: Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
7. Second Rise: Allow the dough to rise again for 30 minutes to develop a light, airy crumb.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool: Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Use warm water at about 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the yeast, but avoid hotter water which can kill the yeast.
• Adding olive oil is optional but adds moisture and flavor to the bread.
• For a crispier crust, bake directly on a baking stone or remove the bread from the pan halfway through baking and place directly on the oven rack.
• Kneading is optional in this recipe, making it great for beginners or those seeking a quick bread.
• Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to retain its structure and prevent gummy texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: easy yeast bread, homemade bread, simple bread recipe, beginner bread recipe, no knead bread