The EASIEST Bread You'll Ever Make (Beginner Bread Recipe)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through making the easiest bread you'll ever bake, perfect for beginners. Using minimal pantry ingredients, this versatile dough can be transformed into various baked goods, including pizza, sandwich bread, dinner rolls, and even cinnamon rolls!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 1 1/3 cups warm water (100-110°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar or honey
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Step 2: Prepare the Dough Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar.
2. Stir the mixture until the yeast and sugar are fully dissolved.
3. Add the egg and salt to the mixture and stir until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough becomes too stiff to continue.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the stiff dough to a well-floured countertop.
2. Knead the dough for 4-5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

1. Shape the kneaded dough into a ball.
2. Place the dough ball in a bowl and cover it with a dishcloth.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about one hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

1. Grease a standard-sized loaf pan (9"x5").
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
3. Shape the dough into a log and place it in the greased loaf pan.
4. Allow the dough to rise again for 20-30 minutes or until it starts to peek over the edge of the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until it is lightly browned on top.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve made your first loaf of bread! This simple recipe can easily be adapted for various baked goods. For instructions on how to make pizza, rolls, or to double your recipe, refer to the full instructions linked in the introduction. Enjoy your homemade bread!