Basic Homemade Bread Recipe from Taste of Home

Ingredients

• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons plus 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2-1/4 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 6-1/4 to 6-3/4 cups bread flour
• 2 tablespoons canola oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Yeast:
   • In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1/2 tsp sugar in warm water.
   • Let it sit until bubbles form on the surface, about 5–10 minutes.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, 3 cups of flour, and the remaining 3 tbsp sugar.
   • Stir the oil into the yeast mixture, then pour it into the flour mixture.
     Beat until smooth, then gradually stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the top.
     Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 1/2–2 hours.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it in half.
   • Shape each half into a loaf and place in two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
     Cover and let the dough rise again until doubled, about 1–1 1/2 hours.
5. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
   • Bake the loaves for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped or with an internal temp of 200°F on a thermometer.
6. Cool:
   • Remove the loaves from the pans and cool on wire racks.
7. Enjoy your freshly baked bread!