Homemade Bread: A Simple Joy Worth the Time

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking your own bread. Maybe it’s the smell that wraps around your kitchen like a warm hug, or the quiet joy of slicing into a golden, crusty loaf you made with your own hands. Either way, homemade bread isn’t just food—it’s comfort, ritual, and a little bit of magic.

🥖 Why Make Bread at Home?

In a world of store-bought everything, homemade bread brings us back to basics. It’s slower, yes, but also richer and more meaningful. You control what goes in it. No preservatives. Just flour, water, salt, yeast—and a little love.

Plus, there’s a rhythm to bread-making that’s therapeutic. Kneading dough is like a moving meditation. Watching it rise? Pure anticipation. And the first slice of warm, fresh bread? Heaven.

Homemade White Bread

🍞 Simple Homemade Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water (about 110°F)

• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 3 cups all-purpose

• 1-1 1/2 cups bread flour

• 2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast: Mix the warm water and yeast and a little sugar in a bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix and knead: Add flour and salt and the rest of the sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic, or knead on medium high for 4 or 5 minutes in your stand mixer.

3. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

4. Shape and second rise: Punch it down, shape it into a loaf or round, place on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until 1 inch above bread pan.

5. Bake: Bake at 350°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

6. Cool: Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing (if you can wait that long!).

🧈 Bonus Ideas:

• Add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for flavor twists.

• Brush the top with olive oil or melted dairy-free butter before baking.

• Make mini loaves or rolls—great for freezing or gifting!

🧺 Final Thought:

In a world that often rushes, bread reminds us to slow down. To mix and wait. To nourish ourselves with more than just food, but with the experience of making something from scratch. So roll up your sleeves, flour the counter, and bake a little love into your day.