Easy Homemade Bread (No Mixer Needed)

🥖 Easy Homemade Bread (No Mixer Needed)
🧾 Ingredients:
3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (not hot)
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
1 ½ tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast
   In a bowl, mix warm water + sugar + yeast.
   Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Make the dough
   Add flour, salt, and olive oil.
   Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead
   Knead by hand for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   (If sticky, add a little flour—but don’t overdo it.)
4. First rise
   Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape
   Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf or round.
6. Second rise
   Let it rise again for 30–40 minutes.
7. Bake
   Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
   ✨ Tips:
   Tap the bottom—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
   Brush with butter after baking for a softer crust.
   Add sesame seeds or herbs on top for extra flavor.