Discover the magic of making homemade bread in just five minutes! This quick and easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and no kneading, making it perfect for beginners and busy individuals. With a crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, this bread is ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. Say goodbye to store-bought bread and hello to the delightful aroma of fresh bread right from your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for flavor)
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Shape the Dough:
- Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. With floured hands, shape the dough into a ball or loaf shape.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your warm, homemade bread!
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough before baking.
- If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread with a kitchen towel as it cools.
With this quick and simple recipe, you can enjoy freshly baked bread any day of the week in just five minutes of prep time!