Golden Harvest Bread is your go-to for a simple, yet flavorful homemade bread that brings warmth to any meal. This recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros wanting a quick, reliable loaf.
All-purpose flour serves as the base for our bread, providing structure and stability. Warm water is crucial for activating the yeast, which needs a cozy environment to thrive. Sugar adds a touch of sweetness and also helps in feeding the yeast to ensure a good rise. Active dry yeast is our leavening agent, responsible for that lovely, airy texture. A pinch of salt enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the natural flavors. Finally, olive oil adds moisture and richness to the dough.
This bread pairs beautifully with a hearty stew or a creamy tomato soup. It's also fantastic toasted with a drizzle of honey or a slather of butter for breakfast.
Start by dissolving the sugar in warm water in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over this mixture and let it stand for about 5 minutes until it's nice and frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Next, stir in olive oil and salt, then gradually add the flour. Mix until you form a soft dough. It might be a bit sticky at first, but as you mix, it should start coming together.
Once your dough is formed, turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes. You're looking for a smooth, elastic dough that bounces back when you poke it gently.
Place your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take about an hour.
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Allow it to rise again until doubled in size, around 30 minutes.
While your dough is rising, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once risen, bake the bread for 30-35 minutes. You're looking for a golden brown color, and the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. This step is crucial to ensure the texture sets properly.