Soft and Fluffy Bread that’s simple, easy, and yields a soft, airy loaf perfect for sandwiches or just enjoying with butter!
Ingredients:
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All-purpose flour – 4 cups
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Warm water – 1 1/4 cups (around 110°F/43°C)
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Sugar – 1 tbsp
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Active dry yeast – 2 1/4 tsp (or one packet)
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Salt – 1 tsp
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Olive oil (or vegetable oil) – 2 tbsp
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Butter – 2 tbsp (melted, for brushing after baking)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
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In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows the yeast is activated and ready to use.
2. Make the Dough:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
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Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
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Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
3. First Rise:
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
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Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
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Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
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Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Roll the dough into a rectangle and then roll it up tightly from one end to the other.
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Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Tuck in the edges.
5. Second Rise:
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Cover the loaf pan with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up just above the edge of the pan.
6. Bake:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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If the top is getting too brown before the bread is fully baked, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
7. Cool and Brush with Butter:
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Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with melted butter for extra softness and flavor.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your Soft and Fluffy Bread!
This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasted with butter, or just eaten fresh out of the oven! It’s soft, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.