Easy Bread Recipe With Yeast

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 06, 2025

28

Share

Easy Bread Recipe with Yeast: A Beginner's Guide to Homemade Goodness

Baking bread might seem daunting, but this easy bread recipe with yeast proves it's achievable for everyone! This recipe focuses on simplicity and delicious results, perfect for beginner bakers. Let's get started on your journey to homemade bread perfection!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it incredibly convenient. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F): Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps it get active.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the bread rise!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and keeps the bread moist.
• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting: Start with less and add more as needed – the flour amount can vary slightly depending on humidity.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow these simple steps, and you'll be enjoying a freshly baked loaf in no time.

Activating the Yeast:

1. Combine warm water and sugar: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water.
2. Add yeast: Sprinkle the yeast over the water and sugar mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This proves your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic! If it doesn't foam, your yeast might be old – try a new packet.

Mixing the Dough:

1. Add oil: Stir in the olive oil.
2. Gradually add flour and salt: Add the flour and salt gradually, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry about perfect kneading – a good mix is sufficient.

First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):

1. Place in a bowl: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
2. Cover and let rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Second Rise (Proofing):

1. Punch down the dough: Gently punch down the dough to release the air.
2. Shape the loaf: Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf.
3. Place in a loaf pan (optional): You can place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan, or place it directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Second rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.

Baking:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Cool: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Resist the urge to cut into it while it's still warm – it needs time to set.

Tips for Success:

• Use a kitchen scale: For more consistent results, use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients.
• Don't overknead: Overkneading can make the bread tough.
• Check for doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
• Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, seeds, or cheese to customize your bread.

This easy bread recipe with yeast is a great starting point for your baking journey. Enjoy the process, and the delicious reward of homemade bread! Remember to share your baking triumphs (and even your learning experiences!) with us in the comments below!