Ingredients
Basic Dough:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water or milk
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon milk powder (for softer texture)
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl:
- Add warm water (not hot)
- Add sugar and yeast
Mix gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
This step ensures your yeast is active and ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl:
- Combine flour and salt
Add:
- Yeast mixture
- Oil
Mix until a dough forms.
If using milk powder, add it with the flour.
Step 3: Kneading
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 10 minutes.
Kneading is very important:
- It develops gluten
- Makes bread soft and elastic
The dough should become:
- Smooth
- Soft
- Slightly elastic
If sticky, add a little flour (don’t overdo it).
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover with:
- Cloth or plastic wrap
Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once risen:
- Punch down gently to remove air
Shape into a round ball.
Place it on baking paper or in a baking dish.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover again and let it rise for 20–30 minutes.
This step makes the bread extra fluffy.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Optional:
- Brush top with milk for golden color
Bake for 25–30 minutes until:
- Golden brown
- Sounds hollow when tapped
Step 8: Cool
Remove from oven and let it cool before cutting.
This helps keep the texture perfect.
Tips for Perfect Bread
1. Warm Liquid Only
Too hot kills yeast.
2. Knead Well
Good kneading = soft bread.
3. Don’t Rush Rising
Let it double properly.
4. Use Steam (Optional)
Place a small bowl of water in oven for softer crust.
Variations
1. Milk Bread
Use milk instead of water for softer texture.
2. Butter Bread
Replace oil with butter.
3. Whole Wheat Version
Replace half the flour with whole wheat.
4. Stuffed Bread
Add cheese or meat inside before baking.
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature for 2 days
- Keep in airtight bag
- Freeze for up to 1 month
Nutritional Info (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 120–150
- Carbs: 20–25g
- Protein: 3–5g
- Fat: 3–5g
Final Thoughts
This homemade bread is one of the easiest and most satisfying recipes you can make. With simple ingredients and basic steps, you can enjoy fresh, warm bread anytime.