Getting Started with Yeast: The Ultimate Guide to Fluffy Homemade Bread Recipes
Are you ready to unleash your inner baker and create a world of soft, fluffy, and delicious homemade breads? With the right techniques and recipes, making bread can be an incredibly rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll take you through 20 mouth-watering yeast-based recipes that will help you get started on your baking journey.
From classic white bread to sweet treats like cinnamon raisin swirl bread, these recipes are perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. We’ve got a mix of savory and sweet options, from garlic herb focaccia to maple oatmeal bread, so there’s something for everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, put on your apron, and get ready to knead your way to bread-making success!
Classic Homemade White Bread
Savor the simplicity of homemade white bread with this classic recipe. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a base for your favorite bread recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Whole Wheat Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful bread infused with the sweetness of honey and the nuttiness of whole wheat. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, honey, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garlic Herb Focaccia
Elevate your bread game with this aromatic focaccia infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for snacking, sandwiching, or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Coarse sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down dough, shape into a rectangle, and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle garlic mixture (3 cloves minced garlic + 2 tablespoons olive oil) evenly over the dough.
8. Sprinkle rosemary and thyme on top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread
Warm up with a delicious slice of homemade cinnamon raisin swirl bread, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll out into a 9×13-inch rectangle.
6. Mix cinnamon and raisins; sprinkle evenly over the dough.
7. Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Soft Pretzel Buns
Elevate your sandwich game with these soft, buttery pretzel buns that are perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or snacks. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 6 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Sesame seeds or pretzel topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add melted butter, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then shape into a pretzel, tucking ends under the dough.
7. Place the shaped buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Rosemary Olive Oil Bread
Elevate your bread game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of rosemary with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add olive oil, chopped rosemary, and continue kneading until the dough comes together in a smooth ball.
5. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread
This recipe yields a golden-brown, gooey-cheesy bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. With its tender crumb and crispy crust, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the bread into 6-8 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and dried parsley until well combined.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly onto each piece of bread, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the bread pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each piece.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Multigrain Seed Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously dense and nutritious bread packed with the goodness of various grains and seeds. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups multigrain flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup flaxseeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine multigrain flour, whole wheat flour, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these buttery, tender brioche rolls. Perfect for sopping up sauces or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired rolls.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
No-Knead Rustic Bread
Savor the simplicity of homemade bread with this classic recipe that requires minimal effort and yields a crusty, flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add water, mixing until shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours (yes, just one day!).
4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid inside.
5. Gently scrape the dough into the preheated pot, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread
This classic fall recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a moist and aromatic bread perfect for snacking or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Bread
This flavorful bread combines the warmth of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a rustic appetizer or side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Oatmeal Bread
Warm up with a slice of comforting Maple Oatmeal Bread, infused with the sweetness of pure Canadian maple syrup and the nutty goodness of rolled oats. This moist and delicious bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, warm water, honey, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
This recipe combines the warmth of jalapeños with the richness of cheddar cheese, creating a deliciously spicy and savory bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Fold in diced jalapeños and cheddar cheese.
6. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sourdough Starter Bread
Harness the power of your sourdough starter to create a crusty, chewy loaf that’s packed with flavor. This recipe yields a beautiful, rustic bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt.
3. Gradually add water while stirring until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface, cover with a damp cloth, and let rest for 2 hours.
6. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Nut Bread with Yeast
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of walnuts, all thanks to the magic of yeast. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and mashed bananas.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and melted butter.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Everything Bagel Bread
Bring the flavor of your favorite bagel shop into your own kitchen with this easy-to-make Everything Bagel Bread recipe. With its perfectly toasted crust and soft interior, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, adding poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onion flakes, and garlic powder during the last minute of kneading.
5. Place dough on prepared baking sheet and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Get cozy with this moist and flavorful apple cinnamon bread recipe, perfect for a snack or breakfast treat. This classic combination of tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and soft bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, egg, diced apples, and cinnamon. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Soft French Baguettes
This recipe yields a batch of soft, airy baguettes with a crispy crust, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply snacking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked baguettes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Gently shape the dough into baguettes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Parmesan Bread
Moist and flavorful, this zucchini parmesan bread combines the natural sweetness of summer squash with the savory taste of parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or used to make sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, egg, and grated zucchini.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Summary
Get ready to rise to the occasion with these 20 fluffy homemade bread recipes using yeast! From classic white bread to creative flavors like honey whole wheat and jalapeño cheddar, there’s something for every beginner baker. With a range of techniques and ingredients, you’ll learn how to make everything from soft pretzel buns to cheesy pull-apart bread. Whether you’re looking for a simple loaf or something more adventurous, these recipes will guide you through the process step-by-step.
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