🍞 Soft Homemade Bread Dough
Ingredients:
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1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
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1 tbsp sugar
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3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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1 tsp salt
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2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Instructions:
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Activate the yeast:
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In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired or the water too hot/cold. Start again with fresh yeast.
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Mix the dough:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
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Stir until a dough begins to form.
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Knead the dough:
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if the dough is too sticky, but be careful not to add too much.
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First rise:
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
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Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
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Shape the dough:
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Punch the dough down to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls.
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Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
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Second rise:
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Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
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Bake the bread:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
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🌟 Tips:
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Flavor boost: For extra flavor, try adding 1–2 tbsp of honey or herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the dough.
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Storage: This bread stays soft for a few days. Wrap it tightly or store in a bread box.
Would you like a variation on this, such as adding seeds, or a sweet version with cinnamon?
