Bread – the staff of life, as they say. There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked loaf to fill your home with warmth and comfort. But sometimes, making bread can seem like a daunting task. Kneading, proofing, and all that jazz can be overwhelming for even the most experienced bakers. Fear not, dear readers! We’ve got you covered with these 20 simple and easy bread recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From classic French baguettes to sweet banana breads, we’ve rounded up a collection of tried-and-true recipes that require minimal effort but maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the world of bread-making, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to whip up a delicious loaf with ease. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started and bake our way into the hearts (and stomachs) of our loved ones!
No-Knead Artisan Bread
Experience the joy of freshly baked artisan bread with minimal effort! This no-knead recipe yields a crusty, flavorful loaf with a soft interior, perfect for sandwiches or serving with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add water and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Dust a work surface with flour and gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place the loaf onto a baking sheet or bread peel lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 205°F (96°C).
8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Homemade French Bread
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and crusty homemade French bread with minimal effort. This classic bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin loaf.
6. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Banana Bread
Moist and delicious, this easy banana bread recipe is a perfect treat any time of the day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
3-Ingredient Beer Bread
Simplify your snacking with this 3-Ingredient Beer Bread recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or side dish, this beer bread is easy to make and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 (12 oz) can of beer, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
3. Pour in the beer and stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Soft Garlic Knots
Soft Garlic Knots Recipe
A delightful twist on traditional garlic bread, these soft garlic knots are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, and salt to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour to the mixture, kneading the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into knots.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Sourdough Starter Bread
Get started with your own sourdough starter bread by following this simple recipe that yields a delicious and crusty loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat evenly.
5. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Hour Dinner Rolls
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these soft, fluffy, and deliciously buttery dinner rolls that can be prepared in just one hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Start your day with a deliciously sweet treat that’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and cinnamon; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to a 12×8-inch rectangle.
6. Mix 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over dough.
7. Roll up the dough, starting from one long side. Place seam-side down in prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fluffy Japanese Milk Bread
This classic recipe yields a tender and fluffy bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking. With a simple ingredient list and easy instructions, you’ll be enjoying fresh-baked milk bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until elastic and smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired form. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
5-Ingredient Focaccia
In just a few minutes, you can whip up this delicious Italian flatbread with only 5 ingredients! This focaccia is perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add in olive oil and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add warm water and continue to knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape into a rectangle.
5. Dimple the dough with your fingers, creating small indentations.
6. Sprinkle salt evenly over the top of the focaccia.
7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade focaccia!
Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread
Transform your bread game with this simple recipe that’s sure to please any crowd. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying ooey-gooey cheesy goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto the bread halves.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic-butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Whole Wheat Bread
A classic recipe that yields a deliciously wholesome loaf with a nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the sugar, salt, and whole wheat flour to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Bread
Get a taste of fall with this moist and delicious pumpkin bread recipe, perfect for a last-minute snack or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
No-Yeast Irish Soda Bread
No-yeast Irish soda bread is a traditional Irish recipe that’s easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. This quick bread is perfect for a last-minute snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Zucchini Bread
Easy Zucchini Bread Recipe
Moist and flavorful, this easy zucchini bread recipe is a perfect treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, zucchini, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Yield: 1 large loaf
Soft Pretzel Bites
Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Get ready to bite into a soft, buttery, and utterly delicious treat! These Soft Pretzel Bites are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to flatten slightly.
5. Place pretzel bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bite.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Simple Honey Oat Bread
This moist and delicious bread is perfect for a snack or as a side dish. With the sweetness of honey and the nuttiness of oats, it’s a great way to add some flavor and texture to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and yeast. Add warm water and stir until yeast is dissolved.
2. Add honey, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Cornbread
Get ready to enjoy a warm, crumbly, and delicious cornbread in no time! This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a quick fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy crust, bake at 425°F (220°C) for the first 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 400°F (200°C).
– If desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
Easy Rosemary Olive Oil Bread
This simple bread recipe combines the flavors of rosemary and olive oil to create a delicious and aromatic loaf perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a warm and crusty loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add olive oil and chopped rosemary; mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits
These tender and buttery biscuits are perfect for serving alongside your favorite breakfast or brunch dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm and delicious batch of homemade goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times, just until it holds its shape.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out shapes.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the world of bread-making with these 20 simple and delicious recipes! From classic French bread to sweet banana bread, and from savory garlic knots to soft pretzel bites, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make artisanal bread without kneading, or whip up a batch of quick dinner rolls in just one hour. Explore the world of yeast-free breads, like Irish soda bread and beer bread, or treat yourself to sweet treats like cinnamon swirl bread and fluffy Japanese milk bread. With these easy recipes, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!
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