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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- Add Salt and Oil: Stir in the salt and olive oil (if using) into the foamy yeast mixture to prepare the dough base.
- 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.
- Knead Dough (Optional): Gently knead the dough for 1–2 minutes to develop gluten and improve texture.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Rise: Allow the dough to rise again for 30 minutes to develop a light, airy crumb.
- 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.
- 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
