Introduction: Homemade bread is a timeless comfort food that fills your kitchen with warmth and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness. The process of making bread from scratch not only brings satisfaction but also offers a creative outlet for bakers of all skill levels. This detailed recipe will guide you through each stage, ensuring your bread turns out soft, fluffy, and flavorful. Let’s dive into this step-by-step journey to baking your very own loaf!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 ½ cups (540g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 ½ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)
- ½ cup (60g) shredded cheese
- 1 tbsp seeds (e.g., sesame, sunflower)