1. Gather your ingredients:

To make bread from scratch; you’ll need the following basic ingredients:

– 3 cups of all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon of salt

– 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

– 1 cup of warm water (approximately 110°F)

– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted butter

2. Combine dry ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.

3. Add wet ingredients:

Pour in the warm water and vegetable oil (or melted butter) and stir to combine.

4. Mix the dough:

Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the dough until it forms a cohesive mass. If it’s too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

5. Knead the dough:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

6. First proofing:

Place the kneaded dough in an oiled or greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour or until doubled in size.

7. Deflate the dough:

Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to remove large air bubbles.

8. Shape the loaf:

Shape the deflated dough into a loaf by tucking the edges under itself and creating a smooth top surface.

9. Prepare baking pan:

Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

10. Place shaped loaf in pan:

Transfer the shaped loaf into the prepared baking pan, ensuring even placement.

11. Second proofing:

Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

12. Preheat the oven:

While the dough is proofing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

13. Score the loaf:

Before placing the bread in the oven, make a shallow slash along the top of the dough using a sharp knife or razor blade. This allows steam to escape and helps ensure even expansion during the baking process.

14. Bake:

Place the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

15. Cool and serve:

Remove the bread from the oven, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack, and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Congratulations, you’ve just made bread from scratch! Enjoy your homemade creation with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads and toppings.