How To Bake Bread at Home

Before you begin, gather all necessary ingredients for baking bread. You will need: 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 packets (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast, and about 1 1/2 cups of warm water. Optionally, you can include sugar for taste and olive oil for texture.

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and yeast. If you're using sugar, add 1 tablespoon to the water as well. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix them together thoroughly using a whisk or a spoon to ensure even distribution of salt within the flour.

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. If you prefer using olive oil, add about 2 tablespoons at this stage. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough by pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand, folding it over itself, and turning it 90 degrees. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or rolls, depending on your preference. Place your shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, until it has puffed up a little more. This step helps develop the bread’s texture and flavor.

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you bake your bread, the temperature is just right for a good rise and crust.

Once the dough has finished its second rise, place it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven. Allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This cooling time is crucial for the bread's texture.

Slice your bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. You can have it plain, with butter, or use it for sandwiches. Freshly baked bread provides a delightful taste and aroma that enhances any meal.