Easy 20-Minute Homemade Bread Dough

Looking for a quick and delicious homemade bread dough recipe? Look no further! This easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty soup or making sandwiches for a picnic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Great flavors: With the perfect balance of yeast, sugar, and olive oil, this bread dough is flavorful and aromatic.
• Quick prep time: In just 20 minutes, you can have fresh, homemade bread dough ready to bake.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of this dough ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

Ingredient Notes:

• Instant yeast: Provides the leavening for the bread.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Enhances the richness and texture of the dough.
• Warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast and helps the dough rise.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
• Bread flour: Provides structure and texture to the dough.
• Whole wheat flour: Adds nuttiness and fiber to the bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the instant yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the olive oil, salt, and bread flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf or rolls, and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Helpful Tips:

• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is at the correct temperature for activating the yeast.
• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour.
• Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. For a crispy crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking the bread.
2. Brush the bread with olive oil before baking for a shiny finish.
3. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the bread.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this homemade bread dough warm with butter and jam for breakfast, or use it to make sandwiches with your favorite fillings. Pair it with a bowl of soup or salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store the bread dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dough in a warm oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I freeze the bread dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
2. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
   Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you will need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dough.
3. How can I make this bread dough gluten-free?
   You can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.
4. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or seeds to the dough?
   Yes, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to customize the bread dough to your liking.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of your time, you can create a delicious and versatile homemade bread dough that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share your feedback with us!

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