Easy Homemade Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

Directions:

• 5 1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour

• 3 teaspoons granulated sugar

• 2 packets instant yeast (or 4 1/2 teaspoons)

• 3 teaspoons salt

• 1 1/2 cups water

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 5 1/2 cups flour, salt, and any herbs or seasonings you’d like to add. Stir until well blended.

2. In a separate container, melt the butter, then combine it with the water and milk. Ensure the mixture reaches a temperature between 100-110°F, then add the yeast and sugar. Stir and let sit for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients in the stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

4. If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour (about 1/8 cup at a time) until it pulls away from the bowl.

5. If the dough is too dry, add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time until it combines properly.

6. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface (or in the mixer) until it is smooth, elastic, and springs back when lightly pressed with two fingers—about 6 to 8 minutes.

7. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest in a warm place for 60-120 minutes, or until doubled in size.

8. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece to fit your desired pan or form individual rolls (about 60 grams of dough per roll).

9. Once shaped, cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 45 minutes.

10. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.

12. Remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool. Rolls can remain in the pan to cool.