Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil, melted butter, or neutral oil
Instructions
- Proof yeast by mixing warm water with sugar or honey and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and oil to the flour. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes or in a mixer for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough, shape into a loaf or boule, and place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slash the top of the loaf and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Swap some or all flour for whole wheat for a heartier loaf.
- Add seeds or grains like flax or oats for extra texture.
- Mix in herbs, garlic, or cheese for savory flavor.
- Bake in a Dutch oven at 425°F for artisan-style crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
