Foolproof Bread Recipe with Instant Yeast: A Beginner's Guide to Homemade Goodness
Baking bread can seem daunting, but with this easy recipe using instant yeast, you'll be enjoying the aroma of freshly baked bread in no time! This recipe focuses on simplicity and delivers a delicious, soft loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) warm water (105-115°F): Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
- 1 teaspoon (4g) instant yeast: No need to proof this type of yeast beforehand!
- 1 teaspoon (6g) sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps with rising.
- 1 teaspoon (6g) salt: Adds flavor and controls yeast activity.
- 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting: You might need a little more or less depending on your flour and humidity.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil (optional): Enhances flavor and adds moisture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started: Activating the Yeast
- Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and kicking!
Mixing and Kneading the Dough
- Add salt and oil (if using): Stir in the salt and olive oil, if using.
- Gradually add flour: Add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise (Proofing)
- Shape the loaf: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf.
- Second rise (proofing): Place the shaped loaf in a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Baking Your Bread
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Use a kitchen scale: For best results, weigh your ingredients. This ensures accuracy and consistency.
- Don't overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread and adjust the baking time as needed.
- Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, seeds, or different types of flour to customize your bread.
Enjoy your homemade bread!
This simple recipe is a great starting point for your bread-baking journey. With practice, you'll become a bread-making pro in no time! Remember to share your baking adventures using #HomemadeBread and #InstantYeastBread. Happy baking!
