Simple Artisan White Bread

Experience the wholesome goodness of homemade artisan white bread with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfectly crusty on the outside with a soft, airy interior, this bread elevates any meal. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with your favorite spreads. A delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- Extra flour for dusting
steps
- 1.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
- 2.
Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3.
If using, mix in the olive oil to add richness.
- 4.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- 6.
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air, and shape it into a loaf.
- 7.
Place the shaped dough into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- 8.
Cover with a cloth and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- 9.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 10.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 11.
Remove the loaf from the pan and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.