4 Ingredient Simple Dough Bread
This Simple Dough Bread is the perfect entry point for home bakers. It is a straightforward, reliable recipe that results in a classic loaf with a soft crumb and a golden, thin crust. By using the “bloom” method for your yeast and allowing for a double rise, you ensure a light texture that is far superior to store-bought bread. Whether you shape it into a rustic boule or a standard sandwich loaf, it is the ideal vessel for butter, jam, or toasted sandwiches.
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4 Ingredient Simple Dough Bread
Ingredients:
| THE BASE | AMOUNT |
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Warm water ($110^{\circ}F$) | 1 cup |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| OPTIONAL ADDITIONS | AMOUNT |
| Olive oil (for softness) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar or honey (for yeast) | 1 teaspoon |
How To Make 4 Ingredient Simple Dough Bread:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the 1 cup of warm water with the sugar or honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid. Let it sit undisturbed for 5/10 minutes.
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Success Check: If the mixture becomes foamy and smells “yeasty,” your yeast is alive and ready to work.
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Step 2: Form the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and the olive oil. Stir with a sturdy spoon until the flour is mostly absorbed and a shaggy, rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by folding the dough toward you and pushing it away with the heels of your hands. Continue for 8/10 minutes. The dough is ready when it is smooth, no longer sticky, and bounces back when poked.
Step 4: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise: Gently “punch” the dough down to release excess air. Shape it into a round ball or place it into a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for a final 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake for 30/35 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown.
The Tap Test: Carefully pick up the loaf (using a towel) and tap the bottom. If it sounds hollow, it is fully baked.
Step 7: Cool: Transfer the bread to a wire rack. Wait at least 20 minutes before slicing; this allows the internal steam to finish setting the crumb.
