Irresistible Homemade Loaf Bread Recipe: Soft, Golden, and Delicious

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. This homemade loaf is soft, flavorful, and slightly sweet—perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply slathered with butter. Loved by friends and neighbors alike, it’s the kind of bread that becomes a staple in any kitchen. Warm, golden, and comforting, this loaf is a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp salt
1 large egg

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tsp cinnamon
¼ cup raisins or nuts
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping (Optional):

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or oats

Instructions & Methods

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive. Start over with fresh yeast.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt (and cinnamon if using). Add melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Stand mixer users can knead with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.

4. First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm area for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

History Note: Yeast breads have been a kitchen staple for thousands of years. The rising technique is a time-tested method to create fluffy loaves.

5. Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Tip: Shape evenly for uniform crumb and golden crust.

6. Second Rise

Cover again and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until slightly above the pan’s edge.

7. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with seeds or oats if desired. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Tip: Cool completely for perfect slices; warm bread is delicious but may squash slightly.

History & Formation

Bread is one of the oldest prepared foods, with origins dating back over 10,000 years. This loaf is inspired by enriched breads, like brioche, which use butter, milk, and sugar to create a soft, tender crumb. Its golden crust and fluffy interior make it a timeless favorite for sharing with friends, family, and neighbors.

Bread Lovers’ Notes

Personalize with raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Perfect for toasting, sandwiches, or French toast.
Makes a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors or friends.

Conclusion

This homemade loaf bread isn’t just food—it’s a gesture of love and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, using it for sandwiches, or gifting it to someone special, its soft, slightly sweet crumb and golden crust will win hearts every time. Simple ingredients come together to create something magical and unforgettable.