Easy 4-Ingredient Dough Bread

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This Easy Dough Bread is perfect for beginner bakers. With just a few simple ingredients, it yields a classic loaf featuring a soft, tender crumb and a thin, golden crust. By properly activating the yeast and allowing the dough to rise twice, you’ll achieve a light, airy texture that outshines store-bought bread. Shape it as a rustic boule or a traditional loaf—ideal for butter, jam, or sandwiches.

4-Ingredient Easy Dough Bread

Ingredients

The Base

Ingredient	Amount
All-purpose flour	3 cups
Warm water (~110°F)	1 cup
Active dry yeast	2¼ tsp (1 packet)
Salt	1½ tsp

Optional Additions

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil (for softer crumb)	1 tbsp
Sugar or honey (to feed yeast)	1 tsp

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar or honey. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes. When foamy and fragrant, the yeast is ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (if using). Stir until a rough, shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes, folding and pressing with the heels of your hands, until smooth, slightly springy, and no longer sticky.

Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Gently punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a round boule or place in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Test doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow.

Step 7: Cool
Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let cool at least 20 minutes before slicing, allowing the crumb to set perfectly.