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There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home. This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With just flour, water, yeast, and salt, you can create a beautiful, golden loaf that’s crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents| 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread
Why You’ll Love This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread
- Only 4 ingredients: Flour, water, yeast, and salt—that’s it!
- Beginner-friendly: Simple steps and no fancy equipment required.
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toast, or as a side for soups and stews.
- Fresh and wholesome: No preservatives or additives, just pure homemade goodness.
Ingredients| 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread
- 1 ½ cups (375 ml) warm water (100-110°F or 37-43°C)
- 2 tablespoons (10 g) active dry yeast
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions | 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Make sure the water is warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy or bubbly. This means the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic!
2. Mix the Dough
Once the yeast is frothy, add the salt to the mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or a mixer with a dough hook attachment. The dough will start to come together and may feel a bit sticky at first—that’s normal!
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed, but avoid adding too much, as it can make the bread dense.
- Pro Tip: To test if the dough is ready, press it gently with your finger. If it springs back, it’s done!
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Tip: For a warm spot, place the bowl near a preheating oven or in a slightly warmed (then turned off) oven.
5. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough with a towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up.
7. Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). For a golden crust, lightly dust the top of the dough with flour or brush it with a little water. Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow slashes on the top of the loaf—this helps the bread expand evenly as it bakes.
8. Bake the Bread
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. For an accurate check, use a thermometer—the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
9. Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the crumb to set and makes slicing easier. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Yeast: Check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s active.
- Don’t Over-Flour: Too much flour can make the bread dense. Add just enough to handle the dough without it sticking excessively.
- Let It Rise Properly: A warm, draft-free environment is key for a good rise.
- Experiment with Shapes: Try making rolls, baguettes, or a braided loaf for variety.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is a blank canvas for creativity! Here are some ideas:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
- Cheese Bread: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
- Seeded Bread: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds on top before baking.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Serving Suggestions | 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread
This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
- Fresh Out of the Oven: Slice and serve with butter or olive oil.
- Sandwiches: Use it for grilled cheese, turkey sandwiches, or paninis.
- Toast: Perfect for breakfast with jam, peanut butter, or avocado.
- Soup Companion: Serve alongside soups, stews, or chili.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store the bread in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Refresh stale bread by warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast doesn’t need to be activated and can be mixed directly with the flour.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
The yeast may have been inactive, or the dough may have been in a too-cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and your dough is in a warm spot.
Can I make this bread without kneading?
Yes! You can try a no-knead method by letting the dough rise overnight in the fridge, but the texture will be slightly different.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a loaf that’s fresh, flavorful, and far superior to store-bought bread. It’s a rewarding process that fills your home with warmth and your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.
Let’s Bake Together!
I’d love to hear how your 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy baking! 🍞✨
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