This Golden Homemade Loaf is the kind of bread that makes your kitchen smell like a bakery and your heart feel like home. With a soft, tender crumb and a golden-brown crust lightly dusted with flour, it’s the perfect everyday loaf—ideal for toast, sandwiches, or simply slathered with butter straight from the dish. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, gifting to loved ones, or just enjoying the quiet joy of homemade bread, this recipe delivers warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every slice.
The dough is simple and forgiving, made with pantry staples and shaped into loaves that rise beautifully in the oven. The result is a soft, pillowy interior with just enough structure to hold up to spreads and fillings. Hassan, this one’s a keeper—especially for those cozy mornings when your family gathers around the table, waiting for the first warm slice to be buttered and devoured.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1½ cups warm water (not hot)
- ¼ cup milk (optional, for softness)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or oil
- Extra flour for dusting
- Butter for brushing (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix directly with flour.
- Make the Dough:
- Add flour, salt, milk, and butter to the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky—add a little flour if needed.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaves:
- Punch down the dough and divide into two equal portions.
- Shape each into a loaf and place in greased loaf pans.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Dust the tops lightly with flour for a rustic look.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- For a softer crust, brush with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let loaves cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice once fully cooled, or enjoy warm with butter and jam.
