4 Ingredients Only! Everyone Can Make This Homemade Bread
There’s something deeply satisfying about the aroma of fresh, warm bread straight from the oven. Even better? Making it yourself with just 4 simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. This no-fuss recipe yields a soft, golden-crusted loaf that rivals any bakery’s offering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this easy homemade bread recipe with 4 ingredients will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This 4-Ingredient Bread Is a Game-Changer
What makes this bread exceptional isn’t just its simplicity—it’s the rich flavor, perfect texture, and versatility. With just warm water, dry yeast, flour, and salt, you can create a loaf that’s chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside. No preservatives, no additives—just wholesome, real ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this incredibly simple bread, gather the following:
- Warm Water – 1 ½ cups (370 ml)
- Dry Yeast – 2 tablespoons (10 g)
- All-Purpose Flour – 4 cups (500 g)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
That’s it. No eggs, no milk, no oil. Just these four pantry essentials, and you’re ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Homemade Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the warm water (not hot, ideally around 100°F/38°C). Sprinkle the dry yeast over the surface and let it sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes. This step allows the yeast to activate and should result in a foamy surface, a sign that your yeast is alive and ready to go.
Pro Tip: If your yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired. Always check expiration dates before baking.
2. Mix the Dough
Add the flour and salt to the bowl with the activated yeast. Mix using a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. You don’t need to knead it heavily—just enough to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
The dough should be slightly tacky but not overly wet. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water. Too wet? Sprinkle a bit more flour.
3. First Rise (Proofing)
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This slow rise develops flavor and gives the bread its soft, airy texture.
For a deeper flavor, you can place the dough in the fridge and let it ferment overnight.
4. Shape the Dough
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf or place it in a lightly oiled bread pan if you prefer a traditional sandwich-style shape.
Don’t overwork the dough during shaping. Gentle handling keeps the gluten structure intact for that perfect crumb.
5. Second Rise
Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking tray or into your loaf pan. Cover again and allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
Baking the Bread
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) about 20 minutes before baking. Place a metal tray on the bottom rack of your oven while it heats up—this will be used to create steam, which helps develop that golden, crusty exterior.
Bake Like a Pro
When your dough is ready to bake, score the top with a sharp knife or blade—this allows for controlled expansion in the oven. Place the bread in the oven and immediately pour a cup of hot water into the metal tray below to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
For an extra crispy crust, turn off the oven and let the bread sit inside with the door slightly open for 10 minutes after baking.
Cooling and Serving
Always let your bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cutting it too early can make it gummy inside. Once cooled, slice and serve as is, toast it, or use it for sandwiches.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in a bread box or wrapped in a cloth for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven.
- Avoid the Fridge: Refrigeration tends to dry out homemade bread faster.
Customizing Your 4-Ingredient Bread
This recipe is a perfect base for experimentation:
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for flavor.
- Mix in cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet twist.
- Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat or bread flour to adjust the texture and nutrition.
Common Questions About This Bread Recipe
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast can be mixed directly with flour. However, letting it bloom in water still helps ensure activation.
Is kneading necessary?
No. This is a no-knead bread recipe, making it perfect for beginners.
Can I make this in a Dutch oven?
Absolutely. Baking in a preheated Dutch oven helps trap steam, resulting in a crusty artisan-style loaf.
Nutritional Value (Per Slice, Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Fiber: 1g
This bread is not only simple to make but also lower in fat and preservatives than most store-bought varieties.
Final Thoughts: Simplicity Meets Taste
Making homemade bread doesn’t need to be complicated. With just 4 ingredients, this recipe yields a loaf that’s rich in flavor, texture, and satisfaction. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or used in your favorite sandwiches, this bread proves that the best things in life are often the simplest.