Homemade Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With a few pantry staples, you can whip up a loaf of bread that rivals bakery-quality bread. It’s a great option for those who want a homemade touch without the need for complex ingredients or long preparation times. The combination of baking powder, olive oil, and sugar ensures a beautifully tender crumb and subtle flavor that complements a wide variety of dishes.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 cup warm water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix until well combined.

3. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon until the dough begins to come together.

4. Once the dough has formed, knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet or into a loaf pan.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

7. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Herbed Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

2. Cheese Bread: Stir in some shredded cheese into the dough before baking for a cheesy twist.

3. Garlic Bread: Add minced garlic and a bit of butter to the dough or brush the top with garlic butter after baking.

4. Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, denser loaf.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. How can I make this bread fluffier?

To make the bread fluffier, ensure that you are using warm water, not hot, as it activates the baking powder. Additionally, don’t overwork the dough while kneading, as that can make the bread denser.

2. Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or melted butter for a slightly different flavor.

3. Why is my bread dense?

If your bread turned out dense, it could be because the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or the water wasn’t warm enough to activate the baking powder properly.

4. Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use self-rising flour, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of baking powder and salt, as self-rising flour already contains these ingredients.

5. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, this bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

6. How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it has a golden brown color and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out clean.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure the bread is fully cooked through.

8. What kind of flour works best for this recipe?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can also use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

9. Can I add sweeteners like honey instead of sugar?

Yes, you can replace the sugar with honey or another sweetener, but you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly if using a liquid sweetener.

10. How should I store bread that I want to freeze?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

This homemade bread recipe is quick, simple, and delicious! With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy warm, fresh bread in under an hour. Whether you’re serving it as a side, making sandwiches, or simply enjoying it with a bit of butter, this bread will elevate any meal. Plus, with so many variations to try, you’ll never get bored of baking it!