Home baked Bread. This is for the ones that love baking.

Baking bread at home can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Here’s a basic recipe for homemade bread:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (optional, for flavor)
• Seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar/honey. Stir until the sweetener dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. In another bowl, mix together the flour and salt.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment if using a stand mixer. Continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.
4. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough with the dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 5 minutes. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
6. After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. You can knead it for a minute or two to redistribute the yeast.
7. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If desired, place a baking stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat.
8. Shape the dough into the desired bread shape—a round loaf, baguettes, or even rolls. Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly on the preheated baking stone.
9. If desired, brush the top of the bread with olive oil or melted butter to enhance the flavor and promote a golden crust.
10. Place the baking sheet or stone in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.