Classic Homemade Bread: Simple, Soft, and Delicious

In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready.

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and the optional olive oil or butter. If you’re using milk, add it at this stage as well.

Stir the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

First Rise:

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Shape the Loaf:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a tight log or folding the edges into the center.

Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise:

Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen above the rim of the pan.

Bake the Bread:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and Serve:

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

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