Classic Homemade Bread Recipe – Easy, Soft, and Perfect for Sandwiches 🍞✨
There’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. This classic homemade bread recipe is soft, fluffy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you use it for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoy it warm with a pat of butter, this bread is guaranteed to become a staple in your home.
Unlike store-bought bread, this recipe contains no preservatives or unnecessary additives—just simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Best of all, it’s easy enough for beginners yet delivers bakery-quality results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✔️ Beginner-friendly – No complicated techniques required.
✔️ Soft and fluffy texture – Perfect for sandwiches or toast.
✔️ Affordable and wholesome – Made with pantry staples.
✔️ Versatile – Great base recipe for garlic bread, dinner rolls, or French toast.
Ingredients 📝
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
- 2 teaspoons salt
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Mix the Dough
- Add melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually stir in flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for about 6 minutes.
4. First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
- Punch down the dough to release air.
- Roll it into a rectangle, then shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
- Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until the dough rises just above the pan’s edge.
7. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve
- Brush the top with melted butter for a soft crust.
- Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Bread 🥖
- Check your yeast – If it doesn’t foam, it may be expired.
- Don’t add too much flour – Dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Use bread flour for extra chewy texture.
- For softer crust, cover loaf with a towel while cooling.
- For crunchier crust, bake with a pan of water on the bottom rack.
Storage & Freezing ❄️
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze sliced bread for up to 2 months. Simply toast or warm slices when ready to eat.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
This soft homemade bread is perfect for:
- Sandwiches (ham, turkey, grilled cheese, PB&J)
- Toast with butter, jam, or honey
- Garlic bread or bruschetta
- French toast or bread pudding
Final Thoughts 🌟
This classic homemade bread recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re new to bread baking or a seasoned baker, this recipe will give you soft, fluffy loaves that rival anything from the store. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to packaged bread again!
Baking bread at home is more than just making food—it’s creating a warm, comforting experience that brings joy to the whole family. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen today.