Quick and Easy Bread Recipe
Introduction
Quick and easy bread is perfect for those who want fresh homemade bread without the long wait. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a warm, golden loaf in no time.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Step 2: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has slightly puffed up.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Step 5: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the dough.
- Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- If you want a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter right after baking.
Storage
Store the bread in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze the loaf tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Reheat by warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to refresh the crust.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same amount, mixing it directly with the flour without activating it in water first.
What if my dough doesn’t rise enough?
Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. If it still doesn’t rise well, your yeast may be expired or inactive.
PrintQuick and Easy Bread Recipe
This Quick and Easy Bread recipe delivers a basic homemade loaf using just four simple ingredients. With minimal rising time and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners or anyone needing fresh bread in a hurry. The result is a golden, crusty bread with a soft, chewy interior — ideal for sandwiches, toasting, or accompanying any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 servings) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix dough ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and salt. Pour in the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms and all ingredients are incorporated.
- Let rise briefly: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes. This shorter rising period allows the yeast to activate and the dough to become slightly puffy but keeps the process quick.
- Bake until golden: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a round loaf, and place it on a baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bread has turned golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- For a chewier crust, place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
- If you have more time, letting the dough rise for 1-2 hours will improve texture and flavor.
- You can add herbs or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.
- Store bread in a paper bag or cloth to maintain crust crispness.
- Use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast to skip the proofing step.
Keywords: quick bread, easy bread recipe, homemade bread, no knead bread, basic bread
