Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This allows the crumb to set properly.
- Slice and serve with butter, jam, soup, or whatever your heart desires!
Tips for Success
- Warm Water : Ensure the water is warm but not hot—too-hot water can kill the yeast.
- Kneading Shortcut : Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time and energy.
- Rise Time Flexibility : If you’re short on time, use rapid-rise yeast and reduce rise times by about half.
- Storage : Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze slices for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
(Based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Variations
- Herbed Bread : Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for savory flavor.
- Cheese Bread : Fold in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Whole Wheat Option : Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
- Sweet Bread : Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ cup chopped nuts or dried fruit for a sweeter loaf.
With this easy recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought bread again. Freshly baked, customizable, and made with just a few ingredients, this loaf is proof that homemade doesn’t have to be hard—it just has to be worth it! 🍞✨
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