Name: Easy Yeast Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour (plus more for dusting); 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 teaspoons kosher salt (NOT table salt); 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1.5 cups very warm tap water (about 130°F)

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, crusty loaf that will have your family and friends asking for more. This Easy Yeast Bread Recipe is designed for beginners and experienced bakers alike, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you’re slathering it with butter or using it for a sandwich, this bread will surely impress.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This easy yeast bread recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques to achieve that perfect crust and soft, fluffy interior. The instant yeast allows for quicker rising times, making this a great option for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy homemade bread. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can whip this up whenever the craving strikes!

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this delicious bread, gather the following ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour – plus more for dusting
2 teaspoons instant yeast
2 teaspoons kosher salt – NOT table salt
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 ½ cups very warm tap water – about 130°F

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the bread-making process, ensuring a delightful loaf every time.

Gear Checklist

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

Large mixing bowl – for combining the ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula – to mix the dough.
Clean kitchen towel – for covering the dough while it rises.
Baking sheet or loaf pan – to bake your bread in.
Oven mitts – to protect your hands when handling hot items.
Cooling rack – to let the bread cool after baking.

With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be ready to create the perfect loaf!

Make Easy Yeast Bread Recipe: A Simple Method

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own loaf of bread.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Stir until well combined.

Step 2: Add Water

Pour in the 1 ½ cups of very warm tap water. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough. Don’t worry about kneading just yet; the dough will come together as it rests.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This slow rise is what develops flavor and texture in your bread.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, dust your work surface with a little flour. Pour the dough out onto the floured surface and shape it into a loaf or round shape, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature helps create a beautiful crust.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Once the oven is hot, place your bread in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help set the crumb and make slicing easier.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some swaps you can make:

Flour: You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a heartier loaf.
Yeast: If you only have active dry yeast, you can use it instead; just proof it in the warm water with the sugar for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it in.
Salt: If you only have table salt, use slightly less since it’s more concentrated than kosher salt.
Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of granulated sugar for a touch of natural sweetness.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This easy yeast bread recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for novice bakers. Here are a few extra tips to consider:

Make sure your water is warm, not hot. Too hot can kill the yeast.
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or cheese into the dough.
If you’re in a hurry, you can let the dough rise in a warm oven (turned off) with just the light on.
Don’t skip the cooling step! It helps the texture of the bread develop and makes it easier to slice.

Prep Ahead & Store

This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Room Temperature: Store in a bread box or wrapped in a kitchen towel for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.
Reheating: To refresh stale bread, sprinkle with water and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Ask the Chef

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can! Just be aware that whole wheat flour will give the bread a denser texture. You might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for a lighter loaf.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to the yeast being inactive. Make sure to check the expiration date on your yeast, and always use warm water (not hot) for activating it.

Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or spices like garlic powder can give your bread a unique flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salt level accordingly.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Your bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. A kitchen thermometer can also be used; the internal temperature should be around 200°F (93°C).

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Serve & Enjoy

Your homemade bread is now ready to be devoured! Slice it up and serve it warm with a pat of butter, or use it as a base for your favorite sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and the satisfaction of enjoying something made from scratch is unmatched. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful creation together.

There’s nothing like homemade bread to elevate any meal. With this Easy Yeast Bread Recipe, you’ll be baking delicious loaves in no time, filling your home with warmth and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, get those ingredients together, and let’s bake some magic!