Quick and Easy One Hour Bread Recipe: Fresh Bread in No Time

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. With this Quick and Easy One Hour Bread Recipe, you can enjoy the delightful experience of homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy individuals who crave the taste of fresh bread but don’t have the time for traditional bread-making methods. In just one hour, you can have a warm, golden loaf ready to be enjoyed with your favorite spreads, soups, or simply on its own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, ensuring delicious results every time.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Making bread from scratch can often seem like a daunting task, but this Quick and Easy One Hour Bread Recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible to everyone. You’ll love how quickly and effortlessly you can whip up a loaf of bread, perfect for those last-minute dinner plans or unexpected guests. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry, so there’s no need for a special trip to the store. Plus, the satisfaction of pulling a freshly baked loaf out of the oven is unmatched. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs, seeds, or even a touch of sweetness. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought bread again.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions & Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 20 minutes.
  4. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for another 20 minutes.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 150 per slice
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Variations

  • Herb Bread: Add 1 tbsp of dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a flavorful twist.
  • Seeded Bread: Sprinkle the top of the loaf with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds before baking for added texture and flavor.
  • Sweet Bread: Mix in 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a slightly sweet loaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You may also need to add a bit more water to the dough.

Q: How should I store the bread? A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this bread without a loaf pan? A: Absolutely! You can shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and bake it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Pro Tips By Emma

  • Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Hot water can kill the yeast, while cold water won’t activate it.
  • Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough well helps develop the gluten, resulting in a better texture for your bread.
  • Let It Rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures a light and airy loaf. Don’t rush the rising process.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Quick and Easy One Hour Bread with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a simple yet delicious treat. It also pairs perfectly with soups, stews, and salads. For a savory option, try it with garlic butter or your favorite cheese spread.