The Ultimate Homemade Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing and brushing)
Directions:
Prepare the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar.
Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.
Stir until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
Grease a large bowl with butter, place the dough in the bowl, and turn it to coat with butter.
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Loaf:
Punch down the dough to release the air.
Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Second Rise:
Cover the loaf with a clean towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for a soft crust.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rising Time: 2 hours | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 12 slices
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