If you’ve struggled with bread-making in the past, this quick and easy bread recipe is here to save the day. It’s simple enough for beginners but delivers bakery-worthy results every time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on effort, this no-fuss bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter. Whether you’re craving homemade goodness or need a reliable go-to recipe, this one is sure to become your kitchen staple. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Knead Magic: Minimal effort required—no kneading, no fancy techniques.
- Quick & Reliable: Ready in under 2 hours, with results that are consistently delicious.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side for soups and stews.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps and forgiving ingredients make it nearly foolproof.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
2. Mix the Dough
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil (or melted butter) to the yeast mixture.
- Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky but should come together in a cohesive mass.
3. Let It Rise
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Bread
- Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
- Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan if you prefer a traditional sandwich loaf shape.
5. Second Rise
- Cover the shaped dough loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes, or until puffy.
6. Preheat and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Optional: For a golden crust, brush the top of the loaf with a little water or melted butter before baking.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal thermometer should read about 190°F (88°C).
