Soft Homemade Bread Dough

 

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose or bread flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast or instant yeast

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)

2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

1 tbsp honey or sugar substitute

1 ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast (if using active dry yeast): In a bowl, mix warm water and honey. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If using instant yeast, skip this step and mix yeast directly with flour.

2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture (or warm water if using instant yeast) and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.

4. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Shape: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or rolls. Place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.

6. Second rise: Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes (for a loaf) or 15-20 minutes (for rolls) until golden brown.

8. Cool & enjoy: Let cool before slicing for the best texture.

Would you like a variation, like whole wheat or stuffed bread?