There’s something truly satisfying about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and with this recipe for Homemade Non-Sourdough Bread, you can enjoy that experience without the need for sourdough starter or a lengthy fermentation process. This straightforward recipe yields a soft and fluffy loaf of bread with a golden crust that’s perfect for slicing and enjoying with your favorite spreads or as a side to soups and salads. Let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious non-sourdough bread right in your own home.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Additional flour for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and olive oil or melted butter.
- Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add additional flour as needed to prevent sticking, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the bread dense.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. Transfer it back to the floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan, depending on your preference. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size once again.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has completed its second rise, gently slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure the water you use for activating the yeast is at the correct temperature (around 110°F or 45°C). Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while water that is too cold won’t activate it properly.
- If you don’t have a warm place for the dough to rise, you can create a makeshift proofing environment by preheating your oven to the lowest temperature for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the covered dough inside to rise.
- Experiment with different types of flour to customize the flavor and texture of your bread. Whole wheat flour, bread flour, or a combination of flours can all yield delicious results.
- For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices of bread for longer storage.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Bread: Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the dough for a flavorful twist.
- Cheese Bread: Fold shredded cheese into the dough during the kneading process for a cheesy, savory loaf.
- Olive Bread: Mix chopped olives and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning into the dough for a Mediterranean-inspired bread.
Homemade Non-Sourdough Bread is a simple and rewarding baking project that yields delicious results every time. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced bread maker, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own loaf of delicious non-sourdough bread!
