soft bread recipe
The Best soft bread recipe
One of the best things about this bread is how adaptable it is. It’s great for everyday meals, but it also works beautifully for special occasions—like a quick dinner for guests or a simple breakfast spread. The way it rises and stays soft even after sitting for a bit makes it a no-fuss staple in our kitchen. Plus, it’s made with whole grains and natural ingredients, so it’s not only delicious but also a little healthier than store-bought loaves. It’s that kind of bread that feels like a treat without the fuss, and honestly, that’s why I keep coming back to it.
Easy Soft Garlic Tomato Bread
A simple, fluffy bread with a savory garlic-tomato glaze, perfect for sandwiches or dipping. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. -
2
Whisk flour and salt in a large bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined, then knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. -
3
Shape dough into a ball, place in a greased loaf pan, and cover with a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. -
4
Preheat oven to 425°F. In a small pan, heat tomato sauce, garlic, olive oil, and oregano over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Pour glaze over risen dough. -
5
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Oven-safe loaf pan
- Baking sheet
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Soft Garlic Tomato Bread Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Garlic Tomato Bread
1. What is the best way to store homemade soft bread to keep it fresh longer?
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. To extend freshness, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to restore softness.
2. Can this recipe be adapted for gluten-free baking?
To make it gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur). Add 1 extra teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour and increase liquid slightly to compensate for the blend’s different absorption rate. Bake as directed, but check for doneness earlier—gluten-free bread can dry out faster.
3. Why does the bread sometimes turn out dense instead of light and airy?
Common reasons include underproofing the dough (not letting it rise long enough) or overmixing the batter. Proof the dough in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping. Also, ensure your oven preheats fully to the correct temperature.
4. How do I reheat soft bread without making it dry?
For a quick fix, toast slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warm and crisp. Alternatively, wrap slices in a damp paper towel and steam in a microwave for 20–30 seconds. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming instead of toasting.
