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Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl combine:

• Warm water
• Sugar
• Yeast

Stir gently and let stand for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

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Step 2: Make the Dough

Add:

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Bread flour

Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes, or with a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

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Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.

Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

Let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough gently.

Shape it into a loaf.

Place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises just above the edge of the pan.

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Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

The internal temperature should reach 190–200°F (88–93°C).

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Step 6: Finish

Remove the bread from the pan immediately.

Brush the top with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust.

Cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

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Delicious Variations

Garlic Herb Bread

Mix dried oregano, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder into the dough.

Cheese Bread

Fold shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the dough before the first rise.

Honey Wheat Bread

Replace half the bread flour with whole wheat flour and substitute honey for the sugar.

Seeded Bread

Sprinkle sesame, sunflower, pumpkin, or flax seeds on top before baking.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Add cinnamon, raisins, and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet breakfast loaf.

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Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm with:

• Butter
• Honey
• Jam
• Peanut butter
• Avocado
• Scrambled eggs

Perfect alongside:

• Soups
• Stews
• Chili
• Pasta
• Salads
• Sandwiches

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Expert Tips

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
• Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method.
• Don’t add too much flour—the dough should remain soft and slightly tacky.
• Allow the bread to cool before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
• Store in a bread bag or airtight container to keep it fresh.