There’s nothing more comforting than the smell of fresh homemade bread filling your kitchen. This quick and easy bread recipe is perfect for beginners, needs no special equipment, and delivers a soft inside with a golden crust every single time. Whether you serve it with butter, soup, or sandwiches, this bread never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
- No mixer required
- No complicated techniques
- Minimal ingredients
- Soft, fluffy interior
- Crispy golden crust
- Ready in about 2 hours
- Perfect for everyday meals
Ingredients (Simple Pantry Staples)
- 3½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water (not hot)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
** Activate the Yeast**
In a large bowl, mix:
- Warm water
- Sugar
- Yeast
** Make the Dough**
Add to the yeast mixture:
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Flour (gradually)
Mix with a spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms.
** Quick Knead (Optional but Helpful)**
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
👉 If you prefer no knead, just mix well and continue.
** First Rise**
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover with a towel or plastic wrap.
Let rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, until doubled in size.
** Shape the Bread**
Punch down the dough gently.
Shape into:
- A round loaf
- An oval loaf
- Or place in a greased loaf pan
** Second Rise**
Cover again and let rise for 20–30 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
** Bake**
Bake for 30–35 minutes until:
- Golden brown on top
- Sounds hollow when tapped
Optional: Brush the top with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust.
Cooling (Important!)
Let bread cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
This helps keep the inside soft and fluffy.
Serving Ideas
- With butter & honey
- As sandwich bread
- Toasted with jam
- Alongside soups & stews
- Garlic bread base
- Breakfast toast with eggs
Easy Variations
- Garlic Bread: Add 1 tsp garlic powder + herbs
- Cheese Bread: Mix in 1 cup shredded cheese
- Whole Wheat: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour
- Seeded Top: Sprinkle sesame or sunflower seeds before baking
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature for 2–3 days
- Refrigerate up to 5 days
- Freeze sliced bread for up to 2 months
Final Thoughts
This quick homemade bread is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated. One bowl, a little patience, and you’ll have bakery-style bread made with love. Once you try it, you’ll never want store-bought again