Embark on a delightful journey of homemade bread with this easy and foolproof recipe. Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, this Quick and Easy Bread yields two loaves of irresistibly tasty goodness. With a minimal list of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying the warmth and aroma of freshly baked bread straight from your oven. Let’s dive into the simplicity and deliciousness of this homemade bread creation.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons yeast
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 5.5 cups flour (all-purpose works well)
Directions:
- Dissolve Sugar and Proof Yeast:
In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast and let it proof. - Mix in Oil:
Once the yeast has proofed, mix in vegetable oil into the yeast mixture. - Prepare Dry Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture one cup at a time, stirring/mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
Knead the dough for 3-5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. - First Rise:
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning it over to coat both sides. Let it rise for one hour. - Punch Down and Shape:
After the first rise, punch down the dough and shape it into loaves. Place them into greased bread pans. - Second Rise:
Let the shaped loaves rise for an additional 30-40 minutes. - Bake:
Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown. Brush the tops with butter while the loaves are still warm.
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs, seeds, or a mix of whole grains into the dough.
- Experiment with different shapes for your loaves to add a personal touch.
- Ensure the water used for proofing the yeast is comfortably warm, not too hot.
Conclusion:
Discover the joy of baking with this Quick and Easy Bread recipe, where simplicity meets deliciousness. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll create two loaves of homemade bread that are not only satisfying but also a testament to the joy of baking from scratch. Share the warmth, savor the aroma, and enjoy the fruits of your baking adventure with family and friends.