sugar + butter

There’s something magical about pulling a warm loaf of homemade bread from the oven. The smell fills your home, the crust turns beautifully golden, and that first slice with butter melting into it is pure comfort.

If you’ve always wanted to bake bread but felt intimidated, this recipe is for you. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you’ll have a soft, fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm with butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for beginners
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Soft, fluffy texture
• No bread machine required
• Delicious for toast, sandwiches, or alongside soup

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the melted butter (or olive oil), salt, and 2½ cups of flour. Stir until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover and let the dough rise again for 30–40 minutes until it has risen about an inch above the top of the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Beginner Bread Baking Tips

• Make sure your water is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast.
• Don’t add too much flour. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky.
• Give the dough enough time to rise. Yeast works best in a warm, draft-free spot.
• Brush the top with melted butter after baking for an extra soft crust.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy your homemade bread:

• Warm with butter and honey
• Toasted with your morning coffee
• As grilled cheese sandwiches
• With homemade soup
• For French toast
• As garlic bread

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze homemade bread?

Yes! Let the loaf cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months.

Can I use bread flour?

Absolutely. Bread flour creates a slightly chewier loaf, while all-purpose flour produces a softer texture.

How should I store homemade bread?

Keep it in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to three days.

Bring the Bakery Home

Baking bread is one of the simplest ways to make your home feel cozy. Don’t worry if your first loaf isn’t perfect—every loaf teaches you something new. Before long, you’ll be baking with confidence and filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fresh bread.

Happy baking from all of us at Sugar & Butter!

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