Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Add olive oil if using.
Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the risen dough and knead it briefly. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Cover the pan with a cloth and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked homemade bread! Feel free to customize by adding seeds, nuts, or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.