Easy Homemade Bread: The Simplest No-Knead Recipe You’ll Ever Make

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Introduction

Discover the joy of baking your own bread with this incredibly simple, budget-friendly recipe that requires minimal ingredients and almost no expertise. Say goodbye to store-bought loaves and hello to fresh, warm bread straight from your own oven!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 200 ml (0.85 cup) water
  • 25g (2 tablespoons) sugar
  • 3g (1 teaspoon) active dry yeast
  • 300g (2 cups) bread flour or wheat flour
  • 3g (1/2 teaspoon) salt
  • 20g (2 tablespoons) olive oil

Detailed Baking Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • Warm water to lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C)
    • Add sugar and yeast
    • Stir gently
    • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy
  2. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt
    • Create a well in the center
    • Pour in yeast mixture and olive oil
    • Mix until a shaggy dough forms
  3. First Rise:
    • Cover bowl with a clean kitchen towel
    • Let dough rest in a warm place
    • Allow to rise for 1-2 hours
    • Dough should double in size
  4. Shape the Loaf:
    • Gently punch down risen dough
    • Shape into a rough loaf
    • Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  5. Second Rise:
    • Cover loaf again
    • Let rest for 30-45 minutes
    • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
  6. Baking:
    • Make a few shallow cuts on top of loaf
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes
    • Bread is done when golden brown
    • Sounds hollow when tapped on bottom

Nutritional Information

Per Slice (Approximate):

  • Calories: 120-150
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Rising Time: 2 hours
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2.5 hours
  • Servings: 8-10 slices

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Water Temperature: Too hot kills yeast, too cold prevents activation
  • Rising Environment: Warm, draft-free spot is crucial
  • Flour Quality: Bread flour gives best texture
  • Olive Oil: Adds flavor and keeps bread soft

Variations and Substitutions

  • Whole Wheat Version: Replace half white flour with whole wheat
  • Herbs: Add rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder
  • Seed Topping: Sprinkle sesame or sunflower seeds
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why didn’t my bread rise? A: Likely issues with yeast (old or wrong temperature)

Q2: Can I make this without sugar? A: Sugar helps yeast activate, but can be reduced

Q3: How to store homemade bread? A: Room temperature, sealed bag for 2-3 days

Q4: Can I freeze this bread? A: Yes, up to 3 months. Wrap tightly.

Q5: Why is my bread dense? A: Might need more rising time or fresher yeast

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Cool completely before storing
  • Use airtight container
  • Best consumed within 2-3 days
  • Refresh in oven for crispy crust

Pro Tip: Slice only what you need to maintain freshness!

Enjoy your freshly baked, homemade bread!