Description
A fast and simple loaf of homemade bread with a soft crumb and crisp crust, ideal for weeknight meals or brunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (about 250 g)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (180 ml, about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Optional additions: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or mixed Italian), 1 clove garlic, minced, 1–2 tablespoons seeds (sesame, sunflower, or poppy), 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan)
Instructions
- Bloom the yeast: Pour warm water into a mixing bowl, stir in sugar and instant yeast, then wait about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil (or melted butter) to the bowl. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms and no large dry patches remain.
- Shape: Lightly flour a surface. Turn the dough out and quickly shape it into a compact loaf — tuck edges underneath so the top is smooth.
- Rest: Let the shaped loaf rest for 5 minutes while you preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Finish the top: Brush the loaf with a little oil or melted butter. Optionally score a shallow slash down the center.
- Bake: Place the loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool briefly: Transfer to a rack and let cool 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For whole wheat bread, replace up to 1/2 cup flour with whole wheat and add 1–2 tablespoons extra water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Homemade