Total Cooking Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
Estimated Calories: ~160 calories per slice
There is nothing quite as comforting as the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. Warm, golden, and crackly on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior, this no-fuss homemade bread is proof that baking bread doesn’t have to be intimidating. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe delivers that classic bakery-style loaf without complicated techniques or special equipment.
What makes this bread so special is its simplicity. There’s no kneading marathon, no stand mixer, and no advanced skills required. Just a few pantry staples, a little patience while the dough rises, and you’re rewarded with a loaf that tastes far better than anything store-bought. The crust bakes up lightly crisp, while the inside stays tender and airy—perfect for butter, jam, sandwiches, or simply tearing off warm pieces straight from the loaf.
This recipe is ideal for first-time bakers, busy home cooks, or anyone craving the joy of homemade bread without stress. Serve it alongside soups, stews, pasta dinners, or enjoy it toasted the next morning. Once you bake this loaf, you’ll realize just how achievable—and addictive—homemade bread can be.
Key Ingredients
This bread relies on simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in texture and flavor.
All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bread and creates a soft crumb
Warm water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough
Active dry yeast – Helps the bread rise and creates airy texture
Granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the dough
Olive oil – Adds moisture and richness to the crumb
Extra flour – Used for shaping and preventing sticking
Butter – Optional, brushed on top for a softer crust
Cornmeal – Optional, prevents sticking and adds texture to the bottom
Milk – Optional, brushed on for a tender, golden crust
Honey – Optional touch for slight sweetness and color
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
Begin by activating the yeast. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (about 105–110°F), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add olive oil and salt. Gradually stir in the flour using a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Avoid adding too much flour—this helps keep the bread soft.
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Let the dough rise for 60–75 minutes, or until doubled in size. You’ll notice the surface becomes puffy and airy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a work surface and gently turn out the dough. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, being careful not to deflate it too much. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or lightly greased loaf pan.
Let the shaped dough rest for 15 minutes. This short rest helps relax the gluten and improves oven spring. If desired, brush the top lightly with milk or olive oil for a softer crust.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The crust should feel firm, and the kitchen will smell wonderfully fragrant.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the interior to finish setting and prevents a gummy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This no-fuss homemade bread is incredibly versatile and fits effortlessly into almost any meal. For a cozy, comforting presentation, serve thick slices warm with butter, honey, or your favorite jam. The soft interior absorbs spreads beautifully, making it perfect for simple breakfasts or afternoon snacks with tea or coffee.
For savory meals, this bread shines as a side dish. Serve it alongside soups, stews, chili, or pasta dishes where it can soak up every last bit of sauce. Cut it into thick slabs for hearty sandwiches filled with deli meats, cheese, or roasted vegetables. Lightly toast slices and rub them with garlic for an easy homemade garlic bread that feels rustic and satisfying.
If you’re entertaining, slice the loaf and arrange it on a wooden board with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, herbs, and flaky salt for dipping. You can also cube it for croutons or serve it with a cheese board for a casual, crowd-pleasing option. No matter how you serve it, this bread feels warm, inviting, and homemade in the best way.
Storage + Meal Prep
Homemade bread stores best when handled properly. Once completely cooled, store the loaf at room temperature in a bread bag, paper bag, or loosely wrapped in a kitchen towel for up to 2 days. This keeps the crust from becoming too soft while preventing it from drying out.
For longer storage, slice the loaf and place it in an airtight bag or container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Sliced bread freezes exceptionally well and allows you to take out only what you need. Toast frozen slices directly from the freezer for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Avoid storing this bread in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures cause bread to stale faster. To refresh day-old bread, warm it in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or lightly toast slices to restore texture and flavor. Brushing with butter or olive oil after reheating brings it back to life beautifully.
Conclusion
This no-fuss homemade bread proves that baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be rewarding. With a short ingredient list, forgiving dough, and reliable results, it’s the perfect confidence-building recipe for first-time bakers. Every loaf feels like a small victory, filling your kitchen with warmth and your table with something made by hand.
Once you bake this bread, it’s hard to go back to store-bought. It invites creativity, comfort, and the simple joy of slowing down just enough to let dough rise and bread bake. Try it once, make it your own, and don’t be surprised if homemade bread becomes a regular—and much-loved—part of your routine.
