Description
Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread is a classic, soft, and flavorful loaf that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. This recipe uses active dry yeast and olive oil to create a tender crumb with a golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to any meal, this homemade bread brings warmth and tradition to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Yeast Mixture
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Dough
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (more for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra flavor)
For Baking
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Prepare the dough: Add olive oil, salt, and honey (if using) to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking, but keep the dough slightly tacky.
- First rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil or butter, place the dough inside, and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf. Grease a bread pan with butter and place the dough inside the pan, covering it again for a second rise.
- Second rise: Let the dough rise in the pan for another 30 to 45 minutes until it piles just above the rim of the pan.
- Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and the pan. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the best texture.
Notes
- Use warm water that’s not too hot to prevent killing the yeast.
- Honey is optional but adds a subtle sweetness and improves crust color.
- Ensure the dough rises in a draft-free, warm environment for best results.
- For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
- Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze to extend freshness.
