Ah, bread – the staff of life! There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked loaves wafting from your oven to make you feel cozy and satisfied. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 fluffy bread flour recipes perfect for every occasion. From classic homemade white bread to more adventurous options like sourdough, bagels, and focaccia, we’ve curated a list of mouthwatering treats that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of bread flour and explore all the delicious possibilities it has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a simple recipe to whip up on a whim or something more elaborate to impress your friends and family, our collection of recipes has got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Classic Homemade White Bread
This simple recipe yields a deliciously soft and fluffy loaf of homemade white bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or snacking. With just a few ingredients and some basic kneading, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Proof the yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Soft and Chewy Bagels
Start your day off right with a warm, soft, and chewy bagel, fresh from the oven. This recipe yields deliciously textured bagels that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons of sugar
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Sesame or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and vegetable oil to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching it into a bagel shape.
7. Place the bagels onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Honey Wheat Bread
This sweet and savory bread is perfect for a cozy evening with friends or family. With the natural sweetness of honey and the nutty flavor of whole wheat, you’ll be hooked from the first slice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon golden honey
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add honey, melted butter, and yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total
Rustic Artisan Sourdough
Transform your kitchen into a cozy bakery with this simple recipe for rustic artisan sourdough bread, characterized by its crispy crust, chewy interior, and tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Mix the sourdough starter with 1/2 cup of warm water in a bowl, until fully dissolved.
2. Add the remaining 2 cups of water and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the bread flour, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature (68°F – 72°F) for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the dough with a sharp razor blade or lame.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy No-Knead Bread
No-knead bread has gained popularity for its ease and simplicity, requiring minimal effort while producing a deliciously crusty loaf. This recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want to enjoy the fruits of their labor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (such as active dry or rapid rise)
– 1 1/2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add the water, mixing until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Dust a baking sheet or Dutch oven with cornmeal. Place the dough on the prepared surface, shaping it into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread
Start your day with a sweet and aromatic loaf, filled with the warmth of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water, yeast, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in raisins and cinnamon sugar mixture (see note).
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and let rise for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Garlic and Herb Focaccia
This classic Italian flatbread is elevated with a savory blend of garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Perfect as a side dish or used to make sandwiches, this focaccia recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary and thyme
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and herbs to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Buttery Brioche Loaf
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and buttery brioche loaf, perfect for serving alongside eggs, fruit, or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 3 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and sugar to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Grain Multiseed Bread
This hearty bread recipe combines the nutty flavor of whole grains with the crunch of mixed seeds, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup flaxseeds
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, rolled oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds.
2. Add sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pizza Dough from Scratch
Make your own pizza dough from scratch with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you’ll be enjoying homemade pizzas in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes shiny and smooth.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Cooking Time: None required – this is a raw dough recipe!
Sweet Hawaiian Rolls
Treat your family and friends to a sweet and soft bread treat with these Sweet Hawaiian Rolls. With a hint of pineapple and coconut, these rolls are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon coconut flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, pineapple juice, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and shape into a log.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crunchy French Baguettes
Bring a taste of France into your kitchen with this simple recipe for crunchy French baguettes. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked, crispy baguettes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into long, thin baguettes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Pretzels with Mustard Dip
Get ready to twist up some deliciousness! This classic recipe combines the perfect soft pretzel with a tangy mustard dip for an unbeatable snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
– Mustard Dip:
+ 1/2 cup yellow mustard
+ 1 tablespoon honey
+ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape. Place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pretzel salt if desired.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
Mustard Dip:
1. In a small bowl, mix together yellow mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Serve the soft pretzels warm with the mustard dip on the side.
Olive and Rosemary Bread
Elevate your bread game with this savory and aromatic recipe that combines the rich flavors of olives and rosemary. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Sprinkle sliced olives and chopped rosemary on top of the loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, resulting in a scrumptious loaf that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Tangy Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Start your day with a deliciously tangy twist on classic pancakes using your sourdough starter discard. These fluffy, flavorful treats are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract, cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together sourdough starter discard, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the egg, milk, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
3. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flours to hydrate.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Enjoy your tangy sourdough discard pancakes!
Pull-Apart Cheddar Bread
Warm up with a slice (or two) of Pull-Apart Cheddar Bread – an irresistible treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews. This buttery, cheesy bread is easy to make and sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Cut into 12 equal pieces. Place each piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each piece.
- Top each piece with remaining cheddar cheese and parsley (if using). Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Whole Wheat Bread
Enjoy a deliciously healthy loaf of vegan whole wheat bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons maple syrup
– 4 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add maple syrup, whole wheat flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Bread
As the seasons change, there’s no better way to cozy up with a slice of warm spiced pumpkin bread, fresh from the oven. This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for snacking or serving as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Glazed Cinnamon Rolls
These soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls get a sweet boost from a sticky glaze, making them the perfect breakfast or snack treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, beaten egg, and cinnamon; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then roll out to a 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While still warm, drizzle with glaze (mix powdered sugar, milk, and butter in a bowl).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to rise to the occasion with these 20 delicious bread flour recipes! From classic homemade white bread to sweet and savory variations, this collection has something for every taste and occasion. Try your hand at making soft and chewy bagels, golden honey wheat bread, or rustic artisan sourdough. Or, go easy with a simple no-knead bread recipe or indulgent buttery brioche loaf. With a range of sweet and savory options, including cinnamon swirl raisin bread, garlic and herb focaccia, and more, you’ll never run out of excuses to bake.