Here’s a super easy and budget-friendly recipe for homemade bread that requires just a few basic ingredients!
Easy and Cheap Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. (You can also do this in a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 3-4 minutes.)
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can mix in herbs, garlic powder, or cheese.
- This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter.
Enjoy your easy and cheap homemade bread!
