How to Make Homemade Bread: A Beginners Guide
Baking bread at home is one of the most rewarding things you can do in the kitchen. The smell of fresh bread alone is worth the effort. This guide will take you from complete beginner to confident bread baker.
What You Need
- 500g strong white bread flour
- 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 300ml warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre and pour in warm water and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms, then tip onto a lightly floured surface.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, fold it back, turn, and repeat. The dough should stop sticking to your hands.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling film or a damp tea towel, and leave in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size. A switched-off oven with just the light on is perfect.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
Tip the risen dough onto a floured surface and punch it down to release the air. Shape into a smooth oval or round and place on a greased baking tray or in a loaf tin.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover again and leave for 30–45 minutes until risen again. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 220°C.
Step 6: Bake
Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips for Better Bread
- Water temperature matters — too hot kills yeast, too cold slows it
- Do not skip the second rise — it develops flavour
- Steam in the oven makes a crispier crust — place a tray of water at the bottom
- Store at room temperature in a bread bag for up to 3 days