This fast and straightforward bread recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy freshly baked bread without the long waiting times typically associated with traditional bread-making. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can have a loaf ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 5.5 cups of all-purpose flour
- 562.5 ml (2 1/4 cups) of lukewarm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- Butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to mix. Let sit for 5 minutes or until the mixture is frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough:
- To the yeast mixture, add the olive oil and salt. Gradually start adding the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a sturdy spatula until the dough begins to form.
- Once the dough becomes too thick to stir, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm, draft-free place.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your environment.
- Shape and Second Rise:
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf or place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again until puffed, about 30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If desired, brush the top of the dough with melted butter before baking for a golden, flavorful crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the interior finish cooking and sets the crumb.
Tips:
- Quick Rising Tip: For a faster rise, place your dough in a slightly warm oven (preheated to about 100°F or 38°C and then turned off) with the door closed.
- Storage: Wrap the cooled bread in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade bread as a side to your meals, for sandwiches, or simply smeared with butter and jam for a delicious treat! This quick recipe proves that making bread at home can be both easy and rewarding.