Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread
There is nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread is a timeless classic that combines simplicity with the satisfaction of baking from scratch.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe ensures a soft, fluffy interior with a perfectly golden crust that will make your homemade bread irresistible.
Why This Recipe Works
This Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread works because it balances simplicity with essential bread-making techniques. The key lies in using basic ingredients—flour, yeast, salt, and water—while allowing the dough to rise properly.
The two-step rising process develops flavor and creates a soft, airy texture inside while maintaining a crunchy crust outside.
Additionally, kneading the dough enhances gluten formation, ensuring a chewy yet tender crumb. By following this recipe, even beginners can enjoy professional-quality homemade bread.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready. Here’s what you need to prepare this Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread:
Ingredients:
Hot water: 1½ cups (370 ml)
Dry yeast: 2 tablespoons (10 g)
Flour: 4 cups (500 g)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or hands for kneading
Baking sheet or loaf pan
Parchment paper
Clean towel or cloth
Wire rack for cooling
How To Make This Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide for this Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread:
Step 1: Make the Yeast Work
In a large bowl, mix lukewarm water (370 ml) and dry yeast (10 g). Stir gently and leave for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes bubbly and active.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add 500 g of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough, lumpy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become soft, smooth, and stretchy. If it is too wet, add flour gradually, one spoonful at a time.
Step 4: First Rise – A New Beginning
Place the dough in a clean bowl with a small amount of oil. Cover it with a damp cloth and leave it in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf or desired form and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, until doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf; a hollow sound indicates it is fully baked.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Brushing melted butter on top gives a softer crust and extra flavor.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
To make the most out of this Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread, keep these tips in mind:
Soft Crust: Brush melted butter over the bread immediately after baking.
Extra Flavor: Add seeds, nuts, or herbs to the dough while mixing.
Yeast Check: Test yeast by mixing with lukewarm water and sugar—bubbles indicate it’s active.
Dough Too Wet: Add flour gradually until smooth and elastic.
Bread Storage: Keep bread in a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Advance Preparation: Dough can be refrigerated after the first rise. Let it reach room temperature and rise again before baking.
Serving
This Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread can be served in various ways. Slice it fresh with butter, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it with soups and stews. Freshly baked bread tastes wonderful on its own, with a crisp crust and soft interior.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with butter, jams, or honey for breakfast.
Use as a base for sandwiches or paninis.
Pair with soups, salads, or stews for lunch or dinner.
Toast slices for an easy snack with cheese or avocado.
Time Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the time required for this Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
First rise: 1-2 hours
Second rise: 30-45 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total duration: 3-4 hours
Common Questions About This Recipe
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works without activating separately. Mix directly with dry ingredients.
How do I check if yeast is active?
Combine with lukewarm water and sugar. Bubbles within 5-10 minutes indicate activity.
Can I make gluten-free bread?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour mix. Note that dough may require extra time to rise.
How to make the crust softer?
Brush with melted butter or cover with a damp cloth after baking.
Can I add seeds, nuts, or herbs?
Absolutely, incorporate them during dough mixing for added flavor.
What if dough is too wet?
Add flour one spoonful at a time until smooth and elastic.
How to store bread?
At room temperature in a sealed bag or bread box for 3 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
Can I prepare dough in advance?
Yes, refrigerate after the first rise and allow it to rise again before baking.
Why is bread heavy sometimes?
Possible reasons: insufficient kneading, short rising time, or old yeast.
Can I use a bread machine?
Yes, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, usually adding wet ingredients first, then dry ingredients.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
This Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread is:
Simple and beginner-friendly
Uses minimal, accessible ingredients
Produces a fluffy, soft interior
Creates a crunchy, golden crust
Highly adaptable for variations with seeds, nuts, or herbs
Final Thoughts
Making bread from scratch can seem intimidating, but this Traditional Recipe for Homemade Bread makes the process approachable.
With clear steps, time guidelines, and helpful tips, anyone can bake a loaf that tastes like it came from a professional bakery.