Baking bread – it’s a rite of passage for any home cook, and yet, it can seem like a daunting task for beginners. But fear not! With these 20 simple easy bread recipes, you’ll be whipping up delicious loaves in no time. From crusty baguettes to soft sandwich breads, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our beginner-friendly guide will walk you through the basics of bread baking and leave you feeling confident and inspired.
No-Knead Crusty White Bread
This simple recipe yields a deliciously crusty white bread with minimal effort and time commitment.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (such as SAF or Red Star)
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F to 100°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and mix until a 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, you read that right – just leave it alone!).
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or a baking sheet inside.
5. Gently place the dough onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: Total: 45-50 minutes
Easy Homemade French Baguette
Bring a taste of France into your kitchen with this simple recipe for classic baguettes. With just a few ingredients and some gentle kneading, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until yeast is activated and foamy.
2. Add 2 cups of flour to the bowl and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is well-developed and slightly sticky.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down dough and shape into a long, thin baguette.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread
Looking for a delicious and wholesome bread option that’s ready in no time? This recipe yields a moist and flavorful whole wheat sandwich bread that’s perfect for snacking or making sandwiches.
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 (about 100°F to 110°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Proof the yeast by adding it to the warm water. Let sit for 5-7 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 about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. 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.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread
This classic Japanese-style milk bread recipe yields a tender, airy loaf with a delicate crumb and a subtle sweetness. Perfect for sandwiches or toast, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F/40°C)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. 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 it 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 a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beginner-Friendly Sourdough Starter Recipe
Get started with your very own sourdough starter without the hassle of complexity! This recipe is designed for beginners, and it’s a great way to kick-start your sourdough journey.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup warm water (around 90°F)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon sugar or fruit (for added nutrition and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a clean glass or ceramic container, combine the warm water and flour. Mix until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Cover the container with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 24-48 hours. This allows the natural yeast and bacteria on the flour to start fermenting.
3. After 24-48 hours, discard half of the starter mixture and add another 1/4 cup warm water and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Mix well and cover again.
4. Repeat step 3 every 24 hours for the next 5-7 days. This process is called “feeding” your starter and helps it become more active and robust.
5. Once your starter is bubbly, frothy, and almost double in size after feeding, it’s ready to use in recipes!
Cooking Time:
– Total time: 5-7 days (depending on the frequency of feeding)
– Resting time: 24-48 hours (for initial fermentation)
Simple Honey Oat Bread
Moist and flavorful, this simple honey oat bread recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With only a few ingredients, you can enjoy the warm aroma of freshly baked bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing with warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add honey to the yeast mixture and stir well.
4. Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Place the dough in a greased loaf pan and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Garlic Herb Focaccia
This recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and aromatic focaccia that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for sandwiches. With its simplicity and adaptability, it’s a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong shape.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
3-Ingredient Beer Bread
Simplify your baking routine with this effortless recipe that yields a deliciously moist and flavorful beer bread. With just three ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or as a side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 can of beer (any style, but darker beers work best)
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
3. Pour in the can of beer and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Banana Bread for Beginners
This moist and delicious banana bread recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and inviting loaf straight from your oven.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip Recipe
These bite-sized pretzels are soft, buttery, and utterly irresistible. Pair them with a warm, gooey cheese dip for the ultimate snack or party treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel toppings of your choice (optional)
– Cheese Dip:
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
+ 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
+ 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until frothy.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place pretzels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While pretzels are baking, mix cheese dip ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
9. Serve warm pretzels with melted cheese dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Easy Cinnamon Raisin Bread
This classic recipe yields a deliciously sweet and soft bread, perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite toppings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon raisin bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, raisins, and cinnamon. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 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 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fluffy Japanese Milk Bread (Shokupan)
This recipe yields a tender and airy milk bread that’s perfect for sandwiches or toasting. With its soft texture and subtle sweetness, it’s a popular treat in Japan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Pour in melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Cornbread with Honey Butter
A classic American favorite gets a sweet twist! This simple cornbread recipe is elevated by the addition of honey butter, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Add dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Honey Butter Recipe:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix until smooth and creamy. Serve alongside cornbread for a sweet and savory treat!
No-Yeast Irish Soda Bread
This classic Irish recipe is a staple of traditional cuisine, and our no-yeast version makes it even simpler to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy this delicious bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously gooey and flavorful bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of refrigerated biscuits
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Open the biscuit package and separate the dough into individual pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Roll each biscuit piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto one half of each disk, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the disk over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal.
7. Place the breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each piece.
8. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basic Homemade Pizza Dough
Make your own pizza dough at home with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some time to rise, you’ll be enjoying homemade pizzas in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and shiny.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into your desired pizza form.
Cooking Time: None (dough only)
Soft Dinner Rolls for Beginners
Soft Dinner Rolls for Beginners
Start your meal with a warm, fluffy companion – soft dinner rolls! This simple recipe yields tender and flavorful rolls that are perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. 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.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into rolls, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful bread combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the crunch of toasted walnuts, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Whip it up in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices.
3. Add pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and walnuts; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Zucchini Bread with Cinnamon
Easy Zucchini Bread with Cinnamon
Moist and flavorful, this zucchini bread recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The addition of cinnamon gives it an extra boost of warmth and comfort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, zucchini, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Simple Buttermilk Biscuits
These tender and flaky biscuits are a classic Southern staple that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a batch of warm, fresh-baked biscuits in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and cut into desired shape (biscuits, squares, or circles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get baking with these 20 simple and easy bread recipes perfect for beginners! From classic favorites like banana bread and cinnamon raisin bread, to international twists like Japanese milk bread and Irish soda bread, there’s something for everyone. Learn how to make crusty white bread, soft pretzels, and even sourdough starter from scratch. These beginner-friendly recipes are quick, easy, and delicious, with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these simple bread recipes will get you started on your culinary journey.
