🍞 Quick & Easy Bread – Two Loaves of Homemade Goodness
🍞 Quick & Easy Bread – Two Loaves of Homemade Goodness
There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking in your kitchen. It’s warm, comforting, and somehow makes a house feel like home. This Quick & Easy Bread recipe has quickly become my go-to because it’s reliable, simple, and delicious every single time. It makes two loaves, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying warm with a pat of butter.
I’ve tried countless bread recipes over the years—some too complicated, others disappointing—but this one has always delivered. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how soft and fluffy the loaves came out, and how easy it was to pull together with minimal fuss. No special equipment, no complicated steps—just good, honest homemade bread. My family devoured it in record time, and I quickly realized this would become a staple in our kitchen.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with your favorite spread, or even use it for sandwiches that hold up perfectly without getting soggy. And if you’re new to baking bread, this recipe is perfect because it’s straightforward, forgiving, and doesn’t require hours of kneading or complicated steps.
🍞 Quick & Easy Bread
Ingredients
(kept exactly as written)
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2 cups warm water
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1/4 cup sugar
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1.5 tbsp yeast
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1.5 tsp salt
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1/4 cup vegetable oil
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5.5 cups flour (I just used all-purpose)
Instructions
(kept exactly as written)
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Dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast and let proof. Mix oil into yeast mixture once proofed.
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Mix flour and salt in separate bowl.
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Add dry mixture to wet mixture one cup at a time and stir/mix until soft dough forms.
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Knead for 3-5 minutes.
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Place in oiled bowl, turn over to coat both sides. Let rise one hour.
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Punch down, shape into loaves. Place into greased bread pans. Let rise 30-40 minutes.
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Bake at 350°F for approx 30 minutes. Brush tops with butter while warm.
💡 Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
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Warm water: Make sure it’s warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
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Proofing yeast: Allow the yeast to sit in the sugar water until foamy. This ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
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Soft dough: Don’t worry if the dough feels slightly sticky—it will result in soft, fluffy bread.
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Kneading: A short 3-5 minute knead is enough for this recipe. Over-kneading can make bread dense.
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Butter topping: Brushing the tops with butter while warm gives the bread a beautiful, soft crust and adds extra flavor.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Breakfast toast: Perfect with butter, jam, honey, or cream cheese.
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Sandwiches: Use for turkey, ham, grilled cheese, or classic peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
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Dinner sides: Serve warm with soups, stews, or pasta dishes.
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Snack bread: Slice and toast for mini croutons or serve with dips like spinach dip or hummus.
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Party-friendly: Makes a great addition to brunch buffets or potluck spreads.
Pro tip: Slice the bread once slightly cooled for perfect, fluffy slices, or wait until fully cooled if you want sturdier slices for sandwiches.
🧊 Storage & Shelf Life
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Room temperature: Store in a bread bag or airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Toast directly from frozen or thaw at room temperature.
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Make ahead: You can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and let it rise slowly in a cooler place or refrigerator.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour?
Yes! You can replace up to half of the flour with whole wheat. The bread may be slightly denser but still soft.
2. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Absolutely! Olive oil adds a subtle flavor and works well for a heartier loaf.
3. What if my bread doesn’t rise?
Check the yeast; it may have been old or the water too hot or cold. Always proof yeast in warm water first.
4. Can I add seeds or herbs?
Yes, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for extra flavor and texture.
