Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simplicity: With straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s accessible for bakers of all levels.

  • Versatility: This dough can be shaped into loaves, rolls, or even used for pizza bases.

  • Soft Texture: The combination of ingredients ensures a soft and fluffy crumb.

  • Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with add-ins like herbs, cheese, or seeds.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored for later use.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (500g)

  • 2 teaspoons salt (10g)

  • 2 teaspoons sugar (10g)

  • 1½ tablespoons dry yeast (15g) or 2 tablespoons fresh yeast (30g)

  • 1½ cups warm water (about 98°F or 37°C) (350ml)

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare Yeast: If using fresh yeast, dissolve it in the warm water. For dry yeast, mix it directly into the flour.

  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture (or warm water if using dry yeast). Stir to combine.

  4. Incorporate Oil: If using, add the vegetable oil to the mixture and stir until the dough begins to come together.

  5. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

  7. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into your desired form—loaf, rolls, etc.

  8. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until noticeably puffed.

  9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

  10. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 1 large loaf or 12 rolls

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • First Rise: 1 to 1½ hours

  • Second Rise: 30 minutes to 1 hour

  • Baking Time: 25 to 30 minutes

  • Total Time: Approximately 2½ to 3 hours

Variations

  • Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

  • Herb-Infused: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dry ingredients.

  • Cheese Bread: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded cheese into the dough during kneading for a cheesy twist.

  • Seeded Topping: Before baking, brush the dough with water or egg wash and sprinkle with sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds.

  • Sweet Bread: Increase the sugar to ¼ cup and add ½ cup of raisins or dried fruit for a sweet variation.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before use.

  • Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used in place of dry yeast. Use the same amount and mix it directly into the flour without dissolving in water.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size during the rising period. You can test it by gently pressing a finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, after the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the second rise.

Why is my bread dense and not fluffy?

Dense bread can result from insufficient kneading, not allowing the dough to rise fully, or using old yeast. Ensure proper kneading and rising times, and check that your yeast is active.

Can I add other ingredients like nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Incorporate nuts, seeds, or dried fruits during the kneading process to customize your bread.

Conclusion

This soft homemade bread dough recipe is a reliable foundation for a variety of baked goods. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple in any home baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re crafting a classic loaf or experimenting with flavors and shapes, this dough delivers consistent, delicious results.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Soft Homemade Bread Dough Simple Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 2½ to 3 hours
  • Yield: 1 large loaf or 12 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Master the art of baking with this soft and reliable bread dough recipe. Ideal for rolls, loaves, or even pizza bases—flavorful, fluffy, and beginner-friendly.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (500g)

2 teaspoons salt (10g)

2 teaspoons sugar (10g)

1½ tablespoons dry yeast (15g) or 2 tablespoons fresh yeast (30g)

1½ cups warm water (98°F or 37°C) (350ml)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)

Instructions

Activate Yeast: If using fresh yeast, dissolve it in warm water. If using dry yeast, mix it with the flour.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.

Add Liquids: Make a well in the center and add yeast mixture (and oil, if using). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead: Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise: Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 to 1½ hours until doubled.

Shape Dough: Punch down dough and shape into loaves, rolls, or other desired forms.

Second Rise: Place on a baking tray, cover, and let rise again 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Cool: Let cool on a wire rack before slicing or serving.

Notes

Use instant yeast if preferred; mix directly into dry ingredients.

Add-ins like herbs, cheese, or seeds enhance flavor and texture.

Make dough ahead and refrigerate after first rise for baking later.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Category: Bread, Baking
  • Method: Kneading and Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star