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Easy Bread Recipe with Instant Yeast | Soft Homemade Loaf

Soft & Fluffy Bread with Instant Yeast

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet instant yeast 2 ¼ tsp
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 cup warm water not hot — 105°F–110°F

Method
 

  1. Activate the Dry Mix
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add Water & Oil
  4. Slowly pour warm water and oil into the dry ingredients. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  5. Knead the Dough
  6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  7. First Rise
  8. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  9. Shape the Loaf
  10. Punch down the dough, shape it into a log, and fit it into a bread pan.
  11. Second Rise
  12. Let the loaf rest for 20–25 minutes until it puffs up.
  13. Bake
  14. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  15. Cool & Slice
  16. Let the bread cool fully before slicing for the softest texture.

Notes

  • Instant yeast does not need to be dissolved in water first.
  • Add 1 extra tablespoon sugar for a slightly sweeter bread.
  • For extra softness, replace half the water with warm milk.

🥖 Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature for 3 days in an airtight bag.
  • Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Toast frozen slices directly without thawing.

🍽 Serving Ideas

  • Perfect for sandwiches and toast
  • Great with butter, jam, cheese, or garlic spread
  • Works well for French toast the next day