Easy Bread Recipe

My Simple, Sweet Homemade Bread

As a busy mom, finding time to bake is a luxury, not a given. But there's something incredibly satisfying about the smell of fresh bread filling my kitchen. This recipe is my go-to; it’s quick, easy, and the result is a loaf of bread that's both delicious and versatile. The brown sugar and coconut oil add a subtle sweetness and a delightful nutty aroma that elevates this beyond your average sandwich bread. It's perfect for toast, grilled cheese, or simply enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter. My kids love it, and even my picky husband asks for seconds.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Don't have a kitchen scale? No problem. Use measuring cups! I've found that even if the dough is a little stickier or drier than expected, it still turns out wonderfully. I started baking this bread recipe nearly 10 years ago, and it became a staple in our household. Over time, I've perfected my technique, tweaking it slightly to fit my hectic schedule and ensuring a perfect outcome each time. It’s become more than just a bread recipe; it’s a ritual that brings comfort and a delicious aroma to my busy days. The rhythmic kneading of the dough, the anticipation of its rise, and the golden-brown perfection of the finished loaf—it's truly therapeutic.

I often adjust the recipe based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I'll use all white flour, other times I'll add a bit of whole wheat for extra fiber. The brown sugar is a must for me, adding that touch of sweetness that complements the subtle nuttiness of the coconut oil. But feel free to experiment with different types of sugar or oil to find your perfect combination. I sometimes even add a handful of chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor. One time I was out of coconut oil so I used vegetable oil and it came out good , too! The beauty of baking lies in the freedom to adapt and experiment.

Baking this bread is a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. The process is meditative, a chance to disconnect from the digital world and focus on something simple and rewarding. The aroma that fills the kitchen is intoxicating, and the taste of the freshly baked bread is simply unbeatable. My children are always excited to help, patiently waiting by the oven for the warm smell to fill our home. We then enjoy our bread together - a simple moment of connection in our hectic lives.

Beyond the personal satisfaction of baking, this recipe is also incredibly economical. The ingredients are readily available and inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy delicious homemade bread. Plus, the feeling of satisfaction that comes with making something from scratch is priceless! I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something delicious and meaningful from simple ingredients. It’s much more than just bread; it's a small piece of happiness baked into every slice. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the aroma and taste of fresh-baked bread bring a little extra sunshine to your day. And believe me, there's nothing quite like sharing a warm loaf of homemade bread with your loved ones. It’s a simple act that connects us to each other and to the time-honored tradition of baking.

This recipe isn’t just about the delicious outcome; it’s about the journey. It’s a pause in the whirlwind of daily life, a moment to focus on the simple pleasure of creating something with your own hands. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. And who doesn't love the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? It’s a scent that evokes feelings of warmth, home, and family. The taste is equally irresistible, a perfect blend of sweetness and nuttiness that’s hard to resist.

I often find myself sharing the extra loaves with neighbours, friends, and family. It’s a small gesture of kindness that’s always met with gratitude and smiles. It's amazing how a simple loaf of bread can bring people together. It’s a reminder that the simplest things in life often hold the greatest value. Try this recipe today, and experience the magic of homemade bread - a timeless treat that can elevate any meal. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Warm the water stovetop or by microwave. Make sure it does not reach boiling point - otherwise, it will kill the yeast. The water should be around 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Add the warm water to a large bowl with the 2/3 cup of sugar already in it. Stir the contents until the sugar dissolves.
• Next, add the yeast and mix until yeast dissolves.
• After these three contents have been mixed thoroughly, let sit for about 10-15 minutes or until a layer of whitish foam appears on the top layer of the mixture.
• Next, add the salt and the oil. Mix again.
• Now you can begin adding the flour. It does not really matter whether you start with the wheat or white flour. I like to use a 1/2 cup scooper to mix in the flour.
• After about 4 cups of flour are mixed, it will be almost impossible to continue mixing in the same large bowl. Take some flour and spread it on a clean, smooth surface for kneading. Dump the mixture on the bowl onto the floured surface. Add more flour little by little until the dough is no longer sticky. Depending on where you live and the humidity levels you may need more or less flour. Six cups are almost always enough flour for me.
• After all the flour has been incorporated, set aside. I usually like to wash the large bowl I was using and grease it with some more coconut oil - this is to make sure that the bread dough does not crack or dry up while proofing.
• After it has been oiled, plop the dough in the dough and then flip it over so the greasy side faces up.
• Next, I wet a dish towel and microwave it for about 45 seconds and lay it over the bowl like a cover.
• Next, I set the bowl with towel in the oven for about 45-60 minutes to proof. At this point the oven is OFF. I just like for it to proof in a moist, dark place - that is where I get the best results. Your dough should almost double in size after this amount of time.
• Next, take the bowl out and punch down the dough and knead it very lightly.
• Cut in half and set one part aside. Grease a 9x5 loaf pan (or two, if you have them). Again, I like to use coconut oil.
• Place one part of dough into the loaf pan and let rise for another 45-60 minutes with the warm, wet towel on top. If you have two pans you could do this with both loaves simultaneously. If not, simply do one at a time.
• Once the dough has risen again, you can begin to bake the dough at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes.
• Then, you're done! Enjoy!