4-Ingredient Homemade Bread Recipe

This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread is incredibly simple and perfect for beginners. With just flour, water, yeast, and salt, you can create a delicious, soft loaf with a beautiful crust. No special equipment or skills are needed, making this bread accessible to everyone. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this easy bread recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 110°F/45°C) and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms. The dough will be sticky.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the dough with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.
7. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread

• Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast.
• Knead Well: Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread structure. Make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Let It Rise in a Warm Place: Dough rises best in a warm, draft-free environment. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help it rise.

FAQs

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the flour.

Q: How do I store homemade bread?
A: Store homemade bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Q: Can I add flavors to this bread?
A: Absolutely! You can add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for extra flavor. Just mix them in with the flour before adding the water and yeast.

Serving Suggestions

• With Butter: Serve slices of warm bread with butter for a simple, classic treat.
• With Soup: Pair this homemade bread with your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
• For Sandwiches: Use the bread to make delicious sandwiches for lunch or dinner.

This 4-Ingredient Homemade Bread is perfect for anyone looking to make their own bread with minimal effort and ingredients. With just flour, water, yeast, and salt, you can create a delicious loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, soups, or just enjoying with butter. Give this easy recipe a try, and experience the satisfaction of baking your own bread at home!

Homemade bread is one of life’s simple pleasures, and with this straightforward recipe, everyone can enjoy it. Share it with friends and family, and savor the warmth and comfort of freshly baked bread!