Imagine pulling a golden, perfectly risen loaf of bread from your oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that transports you to a cozy bakery. This isn't just any bread - this is Gabi's World Famous Bread, a recipe so simple yet so magical that it will transform even novice bakers into confident bread makers. Whether you're looking to impress your family, create a comforting weekend project, or simply enjoy the most delicious homemade bread you've ever tasted, this recipe is your ultimate guide to bread-baking bliss!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water (around 110°F), active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour the olive oil into the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the liquid mixture to the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf and place in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the final rising period.
- Optional: Make a few shallow diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to allow for expansion.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your water is precisely warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead with Confidence: Don't be afraid to put some muscle into kneading - it develops the gluten that gives bread its perfect texture.
- Rising Environment Matters: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise - near (but not on) a warm oven works perfectly.
- Patience is a Virtue: Let the dough rise fully for the best texture and flavor.
- Check Doneness: A golden-brown crust and a hollow sound when tapped are your indicators of perfectly baked bread.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
