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The Ultimate Easy Yeast Bread: Foolproof Fluffy Loaf Ready in Half the Time

Cross-section of a fluffy loaf of homemade yeast bread showing the soft interior crumb and golden crust.
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Bake a soft, fluffy yeast bread from scratch that tastes like it came from a bakery. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a quick method, making it perfect for beginner bread baking.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This confirms your yeast is active.
  2. Add the salt, melted butter, and 2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until just combined.
  3. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  4. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You are looking for a soft sandwich loaf texture.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a uniform loaf and place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  7. Cover the loaf pan loosely and let the dough rise again in a warm spot for another 30 minutes, or until the dough has crowned about 1 inch over the rim of the pan.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second rise.
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  10. Remove the bread from the pan immediately and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk for the warm water.
  • If you prefer a crusty artisan loaf, shape the dough into a round and bake it on a preheated baking stone or sheet pan instead of using a loaf pan.
  • If you want a soft, fluffy white bread, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after it comes out of the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/easy-yeast-bread-foolproof-fluffy-loaf/