There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your bread-making journey, mastering homemade bread can transform your culinary repertoire and bring joy to your table.
In this collection of the 10 best homemade bread recipes, you’ll discover everything from classic sandwich loaves to artisanal sourdough.
We’ll guide you through foolproof recipes for crusty French baguettes, soft dinner rolls, wholesome whole wheat bread, and more, complete with expert tips to ensure your success in creating the perfect loaf every time.
Classic Crusty French Baguette
Transform your kitchen into a Parisian bakery with this authentic French baguette recipe.
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread, and with this recipe, you’ll create perfectly crusty baguettes with a light, airy interior that’s worthy of any French bistro.
Ingredients:
• 3½ cups bread flour
• 1½ cups warm water (100-110°F)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 egg white (for brushing)
• Water for steaming
Step 1: Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Add flour and salt to the mixture. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
Step 4: Punch down dough and divide into 2 equal parts. Shape each into a 15-inch long baguette.
Step 5: Place loaves on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack.
Step 7: Score diagonal slashes across loaves and brush with egg white.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest crust, spray water into your oven every 5 minutes during the first 15 minutes of baking. Always let your baguettes cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to maintain their crusty exterior.
Whole Wheat Honey Sandwich Bread
Transform your kitchen into a cozy bakery with this nutritious and delicious whole wheat honey sandwich bread.
This recipe creates a perfectly balanced loaf that’s both healthy and satisfying, with a touch of natural sweetness from honey that makes it irresistible for sandwiches or morning toast.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water
• ⅓ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray for greasing
Step 1: Combine warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix in honey, butter, and egg until well combined.
Step 3: Add both flours and salt gradually while mixing with a stand mixer or by hand.
Step 4: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
Step 6: Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Step 7: Let rise again for 45 minutes, covered with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 8: Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tip: Test your yeast’s freshness before starting by ensuring it foams in warm water. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough as whole wheat flour can make the bread tough if worked too much.
Rustic No-Knead Sourdough
Experience the satisfaction of creating your own artisanal sourdough bread with this simple no-knead method.
This recipe produces a crusty, flavorful loaf with that signature sourdough tang and beautiful open crumb structure, all while requiring minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients:
• 500g bread flour
• 350g filtered water (room temperature)
• 150g active sourdough starter
• 10g salt
• Rice flour for dusting
Step 1: Mix flour, water, and starter in a large bowl until just combined. Let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Add salt and mix gently with wet hands until incorporated. Cover and let rest at room temperature for 4 hours.
Step 3: Perform 4 sets of stretch and folds at 30-minute intervals, keeping the dough covered between folds.
Step 4: Allow dough to bulk ferment for 6-8 hours at room temperature until doubled.
Step 5: Shape into a round boule and place in a rice-floured banneton basket. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).
Step 6: Preheat your Dutch oven at 450°F (230°C) for 1 hour.
Step 7: Score your dough and bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Watch your dough during bulk fermentation rather than strictly following the time – it’s ready when doubled in size and shows visible bubbles. For the crunchiest crust, leave your baked bread in the turned-off oven with the door cracked for 10 minutes before cooling.
Golden Challah Braided Bread
Transform your kitchen into a traditional Jewish bakery with this stunning Golden Challah bread recipe.
This beautifully braided bread features a rich, tender crumb and a gloriously golden-brown crust that will impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients:
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 3 large eggs (2 for dough, 1 for egg wash)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add 2 eggs, oil, and yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 90 minutes.
Step 5: Divide dough into 3 equal parts and roll each into 16-inch ropes.
Step 6: Pinch ends together and braid ropes, tucking ends under.
Step 7: Let braided dough rise for 45 minutes.
Step 8: Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Step 9: Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: For the shiniest crust, brush your challah twice with egg wash – once before the final rise and once just before baking. Always let your challah cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to maintain its structure.
Multi-Grain Seeded Loaf
Start your day with this nutritious and hearty multi-grain seeded loaf that combines wholesome grains and protein-rich seeds.
This versatile bread works perfectly for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed warm with butter.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons flax seeds
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Step 1: Combine warm water, yeast, and honey in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix in both flours, olive oil, and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Add all seeds except 2 tablespoons for topping. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
Step 5: Shape into a loaf and place in a 9×5 inch pan. Sprinkle remaining seeds on top.
Step 6: Let rise again for 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F.
Step 7: Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Pro Tip: You’ll know your dough has risen properly when it doubles in size and springs back slowly when poked. For the best texture, allow your loaf to cool completely before slicing, though the temptation to cut into warm bread will be strong!
Italian Herb Focaccia
Transform your kitchen into an Italian bakery with this aromatic and fluffy focaccia bread.
This classic Italian flatbread, studded with fresh herbs and drizzled with olive oil, creates a perfect accompaniment to any meal or stands alone as a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups warm water
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Sea salt for topping
Step 1: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil.
Step 3: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
Step 5: Press dough into an oiled 9×13 inch baking pan, creating dimples with your fingers.
Step 6: Drizzle remaining olive oil and sprinkle herbs and sea salt.
Step 7: Let rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 8: Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: For the signature focaccia texture, don’t skimp on creating deep dimples in your dough – they catch the olive oil and create those characteristic pools. Always use room temperature herbs to prevent moisture from affecting the bread’s texture.
Soft Dinner Rolls
Create these irresistibly fluffy and tender dinner rolls that will make any meal special.
These homemade rolls feature a perfectly golden-brown top and a cloud-like interior that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
With just a few basic ingredients and some patience for the rising process, you’ll master these classic dinner rolls.
Ingredients:
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for brushing)
Step 1: Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix remaining sugar, egg, butter, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and gradually incorporate flour until you form a soft dough.
Step 4: Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
Step 6: Divide dough into 12 equal portions and shape into rolls.
Step 7: Place rolls in a greased 9×13 baking pan, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 8: Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Brush with melted butter while hot.
Pro Tip: Test your yeast’s freshness before starting by ensuring it foams in warm milk. For the softest texture, avoid adding too much flour – your dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Artisan Ciabatta
Transform your kitchen into an Italian bakery with this authentic ciabatta bread recipe.
This rustic Italian bread, known for its irregular holes and crispy crust, will make you feel like a professional baker.
The perfect ciabatta requires patience, but the result is worth every minute of waiting.
Ingredients:
• 3½ cups bread flour
• 1½ cups warm water
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• Additional flour for dusting
Step 1: Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water in a large bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix in flour, salt, and olive oil until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Place in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1½ hours.
Step 5: Gently deflate dough and shape into two rectangular loaves on a floured surface.
Step 6: Let loaves rise again for 45 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Pro Tip: Don’t worry if your dough feels too wet and sticky – this is exactly what you want for authentic ciabatta with those signature holes. Keep your hands well-floured when handling the dough, and resist the urge to add more flour to the mixture.
Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread
Satisfy your craving for a homemade breakfast treat with this delicious Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread.
This soft, pillowy bread features perfect swirls of cinnamon and plump raisins throughout, making it ideal for morning toast or afternoon snacking.
Ingredients:
• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 6 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 cup raisins
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
Step 1: Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add eggs and butter to the yeast mixture, then combine with dry ingredients to form a dough.
Step 4: Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Add raisins during the final minute.
Step 5: Let rise in a covered bowl for 1 hour or until doubled.
Step 6: Roll dough into a rectangle, sprinkle with combined cinnamon and brown sugar.
Step 7: Roll tightly into a log and place in a greased 9×5 loaf pan.
Step 8: Let rise again for 45 minutes, brush with egg wash.
Step 9: Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Soak your raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough – this prevents them from drawing moisture from your bread. Also, tent the bread with foil if it browns too quickly during baking.
Cranberry Walnut Artisan Loaf
Cranberry Walnut Artisan Loaf is a delightful combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts folded into a rustic, crusty bread.
This homemade artisan bread will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and bring a touch of bakery-style elegance to your table.
Ingredients:
• 3½ cups bread flour
• 1½ cups lukewarm water
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Extra flour for dusting
Step 1: Combine warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix in flour, salt, and honey until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Fold in cranberries and walnuts until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let rise for 2-3 hours until doubled.
Step 5: Shape dough into a round loaf on a floured surface.
Step 6: Place in a parchment-lined Dutch oven and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 450°F with Dutch oven inside.
Step 8: Score top of bread with a sharp knife, creating an “X.”
Step 9: Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 10: Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Pro Tip: For the crustiest results, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack while baking to create steam. You’ll know your bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What basic ingredients do you need to make homemade bread?
Most homemade bread recipes require flour, yeast, salt, water, and sometimes sugar. You’ll also need butter or oil for enriched dough varieties.
How long does homemade bread typically need to rise?
Most bread recipes require two rises: first for about 60-90 minutes, then a second rise of 30-45 minutes. Your dough should double in size during each rise.
Which homemade bread recipe is best for beginners?
Start with a basic white sandwich bread or no-knead bread recipe. These recipes are forgiving, require minimal handling, and help you learn fundamental bread-making techniques.
How can you tell when your homemade bread is fully baked?
Tap the bottom of your loaf – it should sound hollow. The crust should be golden brown, and an instant-read thermometer should register around 190°F (88°C).
What makes artisan bread different from regular homemade bread?
Artisan bread typically uses less yeast, longer fermentation times, and higher hydration levels. These factors create more complex flavors and a crustier exterior.
Final Thoughts
Making bread at home allows you to experience one of life’s simple pleasures while controlling exactly what goes into your food.
Whether you choose the classic white sandwich loaf, rustic sourdough, or wholesome whole wheat, each recipe offers a unique baking adventure.
Remember to be patient with the proofing process, maintain proper temperatures, and don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect.
With practice, you’ll develop an instinct for dough consistency and timing.
Start with easier recipes and work your way up to more complex ones as your confidence grows.
