Soft loaf recipe

### **How to Make Soft Loaf Bread**

#### **Step 1: Activate the Yeast**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.

#### **Step 2: Mix the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil (if using).
2. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.

#### **Step 3: Knead the Dough**
1. Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add more flour if necessary, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the loaf dense.
2. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can knead the dough on low speed for about 6-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

#### **Step 4: Let the Dough Rise**
1. Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or butter. Place the dough into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The warm environment is essential for the yeast to work its magic.

#### **Step 5: Shape the Loaf**
1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding the edges into the center and rolling it up.
2. Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.

#### **Step 6: Bake the Loaf**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).
3. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until it’s fully done.

#### **Step 7: Cool and Slice**
1. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Turn the loaf out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bread to cool before slicing helps it maintain its structure.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

This soft loaf is perfect for all sorts of occasions. Here are a few ideas for serving:
– **Sandwiches**: Use the soft, fluffy bread to make delicious sandwiches, whether it’s a classic PB&J, a deli-style sub, or a fresh veggie sandwich.
– **Toast**: Slice and toast the bread for a warm, crispy breakfast topped with butter, jam, or avocado.
– **Soup Side**: Serve it alongside a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or creamy vegetable soup, for a comforting meal.
– **Bread with Butter**: Sometimes, simplicity is best. Slice the loaf, slather it with butter, and enjoy with your favorite meal or as a snack.

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### **Tips for Success**

– **Measure Ingredients Accurately**: Properly measuring your flour is key to getting the right texture. Too much flour can result in a dense loaf, while too little can make it too sticky.
– **Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place**: If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven or near a heat source to encourage rising.
– **Don’t Rush the Rising Process**: It’s important to let the dough rise fully so that the loaf has the right texture and airiness. Patience is key when making bread.
– **Freezing the Bread**: This loaf freezes beautifully. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

This **soft loaf recipe** is designed to be simple, with a focus on creating a loaf that’s light, fluffy, and perfect every time. By activating the yeast properly and giving the dough time to rise, the bread develops the perfect texture. The addition of butter and olive oil keeps the loaf soft and tender, ensuring it stays fresh for days. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a reliable homemade bread recipe, this one is sure to impress.

Fresh, soft homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated, and with this recipe, you’ll have a warm, delicious loaf to share with family and friends in no time!