FIRST RISE
- Prepare for Rising:
- Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the kneaded dough in the bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
SHAPING AND SECOND RISE
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can place the shaped dough in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size again.
BAKING THE BREAD
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake:
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature is around 190°F (88°C).
- Cool:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Proper Kneading: Ensure the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure and texture.
- Rising Time: If your dough is rising slowly, make sure your yeast is fresh and that the rising environment is warm.
- Adding Flavors: Feel free to add herbs, seeds, or cheese to the dough for extra flavor. You can mix in about 1/4 cup of your favorite additions after kneading the dough.
- Storage: Store the bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a cloth at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Conclusion
This Homemade Bread recipe is a breeze to make and yields a wonderfully soft, flavorful loaf. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh baking.
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