How to Make Simple Homemade Bread Without Using Yeast
Homemade bread is a comforting staple in many kitchens, but traditional yeast breads can be intimidating for beginners or those short on time. This recipe is a great alternative, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy fresh bread without the need for yeast. It's wonderfully versatile, allowing you to add flavors like herbs, cheese, or even dried fruits to suit your taste preferences. Let's dive into how to make this delicious and simple bread from scratch!
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons honey
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk or fork to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the room temperature milk and honey.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir the ingredients together until a dough begins to form. It will be sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough gently, folding it over onto itself and pressing down with the heel of your hand.
Continue kneading for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much to keep the dough soft.
Shape the dough into a loaf by rolling it out into a roughly rectangular shape, about 9x5 inches.
Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
Place the shaped dough seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
Using a sharp knife or blade, make 3 shallow slashes across the top of the loaf to allow it to expand while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Once cooled, slice your homemade bread and serve it fresh with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough, as it can make the bread tough. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture without adding excess flour.
- Experiment with adding seeds (like sesame or poppy seeds) or herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) to the dough for added flavor and texture.
- Adjust the honey amount based on your preference for sweetness. You can reduce or increase it slightly to suit your taste.
- For a crispier crust, lightly brush the loaf with water before baking or spritz water into the oven during the first few minutes of baking to create steam.
Have Fun Baking!