Easy Home Baked Bread
Enjoy warm, crusty homemade bread with a soft interior, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches. This easy recipe yields two loaves with a delightful crust and a hint of sweetness from sugar. Suitable for beginner bakers and bread enthusiasts alike, it fills your home with inviting aromas and wholesome flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, dry yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add flour to form a stiff dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Toss the dough onto a floured board, divide in half, and shape into two loaves.
- Grease the pans and sprinkle with cornmeal.
- Place the loaves in the pans and let rise for 45 to 60 minutes.
- Brush the tops of the loaves with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier texture, ensure your water is warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don't have dry yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast, just remember to proof it first. Adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough can enhance flavor, making it a great base for sandwiches or toast. This recipe is also perfect for pairing with dishes like Baked Hostess Ham.
Serving Suggestions
Slice this homemade bread and serve it warm with butter for an irresistible treat. It pairs beautifully with soups and salads, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Consider toasting slices for breakfast or using them for sandwiches. It also complements dishes like Banana Salad or Strawberry Parfait for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply place the loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Home Baked Bread contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. Start with half and gradually increase the amount to your preference. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may require a bit more water, so monitor the dough's consistency as you mix.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast or insufficient warmth. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area. You can also create a warm environment by turning on your oven for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or even olives can elevate this bread's flavor. Just fold these ingredients into the dough during the mixing stage, but be cautious not to overload it, as too many additions can affect the dough's structure.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).