Get ready to rise to the occasion with these 20 scrumptious and fluffy homemade bread recipes, each featuring the star of the show: yeast! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these classic and creative recipes will have you kneading your way to a world of delicious possibilities. From soft sandwich loaves to savory pull-aparts, sweet cinnamon swirls to herby focaccias, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the wonderful world of yeast-based bread making, sharing our favorite recipes and tips to help you get started. So grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
Classic White Sandwich Bread
This recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and deliciously classic white sandwich bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked homemade bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups 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)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water. Let 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 and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it 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. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Whole Wheat Bread
This sweet and savory bread combines the natural goodness of whole wheat with the richness of honey, creating a deliciously textured loaf perfect for sandwiches or toasting. With its subtle hint of sweetness, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add honey, salt, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, 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 round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread
Elevate your dinner table with this mouthwatering garlic herb pull-apart bread, perfect for sopping up juices or serving alongside your favorite dishes. With its buttery aroma and savory flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to a 12-inch circle. Brush with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle garlic and rosemary evenly over the dough.
7. Cut into 8-10 pieces and pull apart into individual strands.
8. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread
Moist and flavorful, this sweet bread is perfect for breakfast or a snack. The cinnamon swirl adds a delightful surprise to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 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 bowl, whisk together flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out half the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle with raisins and cinnamon.
6. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place pieces on top of remaining dough, leaving a 1-inch border around each piece.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Soft Pretzel Buns
Soft Pretzel Buns Recipe
Elevate your sandwich game with these soft, buttery pretzel buns that pair perfectly with any filling. Perfect for burgers, subs, or just snacking on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Place 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.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into a long, thin rope.
7. Twist the ropes into pretzel shapes and place on prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash or melted butter (optional).
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Rosemary Olive Oil Bread
Elevate your bread game with this fragrant and flavorful Rosemary Olive Oil Bread, perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a side dish. The combination of fresh rosemary and olive oil creates a deliciously aromatic crust that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
3. Add olive oil, rosemary, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Knots
Elevate your snack game with these soft, cheesy, and garlicky knots that are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish. With just a few ingredients, you can have these flavorful treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add softened butter, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Tie each piece into a knot and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the knots.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Multigrain Seeded Loaf
This loaf is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, packed with the goodness of multigrains and seeds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, oats, seeds, salt, and sugar.
3. Proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
4. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche Dinner Rolls
Elevate your meal with these flaky, buttery brioche dinner rolls that are sure to impress. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying warm, golden-brown rolls straight from the oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add yeast and let mixture sit for 5-7 minutes, or until foamy.
4. Gradually add flour, salt, and milk. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead dough on floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Form into 8-10 rolls. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful Jalapeño Cheddar Bread recipe, perfect for adding a kick to your favorite fillings. With the subtle heat of jalapeños and the richness of cheddar cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Place dough on prepared baking sheet and shape into a loaf.
7. Brush with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Baguettes
Create authentic French baguettes with this simple recipe that yields a crispy crust and soft interior. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or serving alongside your favorite soups and cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
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 1/2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes shiny and develops a gluten network.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into two long baguettes.
8. Place the baguettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread
This classic recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a moist and aromatic bread perfect for fall gatherings or cozying up on a chilly winter morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia
Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia: A flavorful and aromatic Italian flatbread perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. 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.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Dimple the dough with your fingers, then sprinkle with chopped rosemary leaves and sun-dried tomatoes. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Maple Oatmeal Bread
Maple Oatmeal Bread Recipe
This recipe combines the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of pure maple syrup, resulting in a deliciously flavorful and moist bread perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by whisking it with warm water until frothy.
3. Add maple syrup and melted butter to the yeast mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. 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.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Everything Bagel Bread
Get ready to fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bagels! This classic everything bagel bread recipe is a staple for any bread lover, featuring a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon dried garlic flakes
– 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning (or a combination of your favorite seasonings)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic flakes, and everything bagel seasoning to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it 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 desired bagel shapes. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Starter Bread
Start your day with a delicious loaf of sourdough starter bread, made using natural yeast and minimal ingredients. This recipe yields a crusty exterior and a chewy interior, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and 1/2 cup of warm water to create a smooth batter.
2. Add 1 cup of bread flour and mix until just combined, forming a shaggy dough.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 4-6 hours, allowing the starter to activate.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Walnut Yeast Bread
This delicious banana walnut yeast bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a snack or as a side dish. The addition of yeast gives the bread a light and airy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add mashed bananas, sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion Rye Bread
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions in this rich and dense rye bread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, sugar, and yeast.
4. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Add melted butter, caramelized onions, and caraway seeds (if using) to the dough. Mix until a sticky ball forms.
6. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Challah
Brighten up your brunch or breakfast with this sweet and savory apple cinnamon challah, perfect for fall gatherings. This recipe combines the comfort of homemade bread with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of fresh apples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup apple cider or water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
3. Add melted butter, egg, apple cider, and chopped apples; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough on a floured surface, shape into a round or oblong loaf, and cover with plastic wrap.
6. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful breadsticks infused with the richness of pesto and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– Sesame seeds or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. 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.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and divide into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long stick shape.
7. Brush tops with pesto, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with sesame seeds or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to rise to the occasion with these 20 scrumptious homemade bread recipes, each featuring yeast as the star ingredient. From classic white sandwich bread to flavorful options like garlic herb pull-apart and jalapeño cheddar, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats like pumpkin spice or maple oatmeal, or savory delights like rosemary olive oil or caramelized onion rye, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. With a range of textures and flavors, you’ll be hooked on baking your own bread at home.
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