This Soft Homemade Bread Dough is the perfect base for any bread recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create light, airy, and perfectly soft bread that tastes better than store-bought.
The secret? A precise balance of yeast activation, gentle kneading, and proper resting time—giving you cloud-like fluffiness in every bite!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Soft & Fluffy Texture – The perfect balance of moisture and rise.
✔ Simple Ingredients – No fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients.
✔ Versatile Dough – Use it for loaves, rolls, pizza dough, or buns!
✔ Beginner-Friendly – Easy kneading and foolproof yeast activation.
📌 Ingredients (Makes 1 Large Loaf or 12 Rolls)
🥖 For the Bread Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (500g)
- 2 teaspoons salt (10g)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (10g)
- 1½ tablespoons dry yeast (or 2 tablespoons fresh yeast) (15g dry / 30g fresh)
- 1½ cups warm water (about 98°F or 37°C) (350ml)
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Swap all-purpose flour for bread flour for a chewier texture.
✔ Add 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter for extra softness.
✔ Enhance flavor with ½ teaspoon honey or milk instead of sugar.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Activate the Yeast
1️⃣ In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in ½ cup of warm water (98°F or 37°C).
2️⃣ Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly.
💡 Tip: If your yeast doesn’t foam, your water may be too hot or too cold, or your yeast may be expired.
🥣 Step 2: Mix the Dough
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2️⃣ Pour in the activated yeast mixture and the remaining 1 cup of warm water.
3️⃣ Mix with a wooden spoon or hands until the dough comes together.
💡 The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
👏 Step 3: Knead the Dough
1️⃣ Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2️⃣ If the dough is too sticky, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time while kneading.
💡 For softer bread, avoid over-kneading—stop when the dough is smooth!
⏳ Step 4: First Rise (Proofing)
1️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp towel.
2️⃣ Let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
💡 Best proofing spot: A slightly warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot!
🍞 Step 5: Shape the Dough
1️⃣ Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or rolls.
2️⃣ Place in a greased loaf pan or baking sheet.
3️⃣ Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
💡 For extra flavor, brush with melted butter before baking!
🔥 Step 6: Bake Until Golden
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes (for a loaf) or 15-18 minutes (for rolls).
3️⃣ The bread is ready when the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
💡 For a glossy finish, brush with butter after baking!
🍽 Step 7: Cool & Serve
1️⃣ Let the bread cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2️⃣ Enjoy with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads!
💡 Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for later!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- First Rise: 60-90 minutes
- Second Rise: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours
- Calories: ~150 kcal per serving
- Servings: 1 large loaf or 12 rolls
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Whole Wheat – Swap 1 cup flour for whole wheat flour.
✔ No-Knead Version? – Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge instead of kneading!
✔ Extra Fluffy? – Add 1 tablespoon yogurt or milk to the dough.
✔ Want a Crusty Loaf? – Place a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven while baking.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! After the first rise, store the dough in the fridge overnight and bake the next day.
How do I store homemade bread?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes! Use 1 tablespoon of instant yeast and skip the activation step.