Homemade Bread

1In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (1½ cups), sugar (2 tbsp), and active dry yeast (2¼ tsp). Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and activated.

2Add olive oil (2 tbsp) to the yeast mixture and stir gently to combine.

3Gradually add flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until the dough forms.

4Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6Punch down the dough to release the air bubbles and shape it into a loaf.

7Transfer the shaped dough to a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

8Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

9Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.