If you’ve ever wanted to bake your own bread but thought it would take too much time, this One Hour Bread Recipe is a game-changer. This quick bread recipe comes together in just an hour, from mixing to baking, and delivers a soft, golden loaf with a perfectly tender crumb. Whether you’re making sandwiches, toast, or just serving it with butter, this bread will quickly become a favorite.
One Hour Bread
I love making this bread when I’m short on time but still want that fresh-baked goodness. Unlike traditional bread recipes that require hours of rising time, this one uses rapid-rise yeast to speed up the process without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s simple, straightforward, and produces a loaf that’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, too—you can add herbs, garlic, or even cheese for extra flavor. Plus, it pairs beautifully with dishes like Cabbage Soup Recipe or a hearty spread of Homemade Hamburger Gyros with Peppers and Onions.
Why You’ll Love This One Hour Bread Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just an hour, this bread requires minimal effort and delivers big on flavor.
- Soft and Fluffy: The result is a perfectly soft, tender loaf that’s great for sandwiches or served alongside a meal.
- Versatile: You can customize this bread with herbs, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.
- Beginner-Friendly: No complicated techniques or long rising times—perfect for beginner bakers.
Main Ingredients for One Hour Bread
- Flour – All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can also use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Yeast – Rapid-rise or instant yeast is key to making this bread quickly without sacrificing the rise.
- Sugar – A small amount of sugar feeds the yeast and helps the bread rise.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor of the bread and balances the sweetness.
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast and helps create a soft dough.
- Oil or Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One Hour Bread Recipe
Here’s how to make this delicious, quick bread in just one hour:
- Prepare the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of warm water (about 110°F) with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 1/4 teaspoons of rapid-rise yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
- Tip: Make sure the water isn’t too hot, or it could kill the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F.
- Mix the Dough: Once the yeast is foamy, add 2 tablespoons of oil or melted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3 1/2 to 4 cups of flour, one cup at a time. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it’s manageable.
- Pro Tip: For added flavor, you can mix in herbs like rosemary or garlic powder at this stage.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-6 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
- Variation: For a savory twist, add shredded cheese or chopped olives while kneading.
- Shape the Loaf: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 20-25 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Tip: If your kitchen is cold, you can let the dough rise in the oven with the light on or in a slightly warm spot.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Pro Tip: For a glossy finish, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with butter, jam, or alongside your favorite meals.
- Serving Idea: This bread pairs perfectly with a bowl of Cabbage Soup Recipe or topped with Delicious Oreo White Chocolate Chip Bars & Milk Pairing: Step-by-Step Guide for a sweet treat.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Herb and Cheese Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or basil) and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the dough for a flavorful twist.
- Whole Wheat Option: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- How to Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the toaster or microwave.
- How to Serve: This bread is perfect for making sandwiches, serving with soups or stews, or enjoying as toast with butter and jam.
Health Benefits of One Hour Bread
This quick bread is not only delicious but also provides some nutritional benefits. By using simple, wholesome ingredients like flour, yeast, and water, you can enjoy fresh bread without the preservatives found in store-bought loaves. Adding whole wheat flour or seeds to the dough can increase the fiber content, making it even more nutritious.
- High in Carbohydrates: Provides energy to keep you fueled throughout the day.
- Rich in Fiber (if using whole wheat): Helps support healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can use less sugar or swap in healthier fats like olive oil for a lighter loaf.
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