This homemade bread is the kind of recipe that spreads joy beyond your front door. It’s soft, buttery, and slightly sweet with a golden crust that’s irresistible. Whether you’re baking for your family, gifting a loaf to a neighbor, or prepping for a community meal, this bread delivers every time. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to earn rave reviews. One bite and people will be asking for the recipe—just like my neighbor did five minutes after I dropped off a loaf!
Ingredients:
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1½ tablespoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup honey (or sugar for a more neutral flavor)
- 3½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Stir gently, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. - Mix the Dough:
Add salt and gradually stir in the flour, one cup at a time. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand. The dough should be sticky but pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s too wet, add a bit more flour; too dry, add a splash of water. - Knead:
Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes in a mixer or 8–10 minutes by hand until it’s smooth and elastic. This builds the gluten structure that gives the bread its chewy texture. - First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. - Shape the Loaves:
Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a loaf by folding and pinching the dough into a smooth log. Place in greased 9×5” loaf pans. - Second Rise:
Cover the pans and let the loaves rise again for 45–60 minutes, until they’ve puffed up about an inch above the pan rim. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, brush the tops with melted butter, and return to bake for another 5–10 minutes until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach around 200°F. - Cool and Serve:
Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice once cooled—or serve warm with butter for maximum joy.
Tips & Twists:
- 🧈 Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 🌾 Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- 🧄 Add garlic powder and herbs for a savory version.
- 🍞 Freeze one loaf for later—wrap tightly in plastic and foil.
This bread is more than just flour and water—it’s a little act of kindness, a warm hug in loaf form, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for your neighbor, your family, or your faith community, this recipe brings people together. Let me know if you want a tropical twist or sugar-free variation next!