If you’ve ever imagined the cozy charm of rustic country kitchens and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, then this Farmhouse Bread Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe combines comforting textures with a golden crust and a soft, tender crumb that’s perfect for any meal or snack. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this bread will fill your home with warmth and your table with smiles. It’s hearty, inviting, and simply unforgettable— everything a classic farmhouse bread should be.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly delightful about the Farmhouse Bread Recipe is how straightforward and honest the ingredients are. Each one brings its own magic to create that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and structure. From the warmth of the yeast to the richness of melted butter, these pantry staples come together to make bread that tastes like a hug.
- 3 ½ cups warm water (105-115˚ F): The warm water activates the yeast gently, encouraging a lively rise.
- 4½ teaspoons instant rapid-rise yeast: This yeast gives the dough a beautiful lift and airy texture, speeding up the process without compromising taste.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Provides just the right hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors and helps feed the yeast.
- 1 Tablespoon table salt: Essential for flavor depth and controlling yeast activity for an even rise.
- 5 Tablespoons melted unsalted butter (divided): Adds richness and a tender crumb, plus a golden, soft crust when brushed on.
- 9-10 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, creating structure and chewiness, with room to adjust for perfect dough consistency.
How to Make Farmhouse Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Ingredients
Start by mixing the warm water with the instant rapid-rise yeast and sugar in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and aromatic—this means your yeast is happily awake and ready to work its magic. Then, stir in the melted butter and salt.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Slowly add in 9 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing as you go. The dough will be sticky at first, but keep adding flour a little at a time until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl and forms a soft, slightly tacky dough. This step is where the texture of your bread is born.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading builds gluten, which gives the bread its chewy bite — so don’t rush this part, your hands will thank you!
Step 4: First Rise
Lightly butter a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat the surface. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, then let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Watching your dough grow is one of the most satisfying parts of making this Farmhouse Bread Recipe.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough gently and divide it into loaves or rolls depending on your preference. Place them on greased baking trays or pans, cover again, and let rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise ensures a tender crumb and a loaf that bakes evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the dough with the remaining melted butter to encourage a beautifully soft crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped. Once out of the oven, let your bread cool for a bit before slicing, so those perfect pockets inside have a chance to set.
How to Serve Farmhouse Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple brush of melted butter right after baking enhances the flavor and gives the crust a lovely shine. For a rustic touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top before baking. Your farmhouse bread will not only taste fantastic but also look tempting enough to steal the spotlight at any meal.
Side Dishes
This bread is a star alongside hearty soups, stews, or rich pasta dishes. Its slightly sweet and buttery notes beautifully complement tomato-based sauces or creamy chowders. Serve warm slices with butter, cheese, or your favorite jams for a satisfying snack that feels like a little indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Hollow out a large loaf to create a rustic bread bowl for dips or chili. Or slice thick, then toast and top with smashed avocado, roasted veggies, or smoked salmon for a fresh twist. The Farmhouse Bread Recipe is versatile enough to play both sidekick and showstopper at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Farmhouse Bread Recipe will stay fresh for several days at room temperature if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a bread box. To keep the crust from going too soft, avoid storing it in the fridge.
Freezing
Freeze leftover bread by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a freezer bag. It will hold up well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw at room temperature, then refresh in the oven for a few minutes to restore that freshly baked warmth.
Reheating
Reheat slices or loaves in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This helps bring back the wonderful crispiness of the crust while warming the soft interior, making it feel like it just came out of the oven again.
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Absolutely, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. Just remember to dissolve it in the warm water first and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy before mixing with other ingredients.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap the bottom. Using a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 190-200°F is a foolproof method.
Can I add whole wheat flour to the Farmhouse Bread Recipe?
Yes, you can replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and denser texture. Keep an eye on hydration and add a bit more water if the dough feels stiff.
Is it necessary to knead the dough by hand?
Not at all! You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for convenience. Mixing on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes will achieve the same smooth and elastic dough.
How long does this bread keep fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
Making the Farmhouse Bread Recipe at home is more than just baking; it’s a comforting ritual that wraps your kitchen in warmth and tradition. Once you taste that soft crumb and buttery crust you made with your own hands, you’ll wonder why you ever bought bread from the store. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear all about your baking adventures—this one’s a real keeper!
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Farmhouse Bread recipe yields a large, soft, and fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches and toast. With a warm water-based yeast activation, a touch of sugar and butter, and hours of rising time, the bread develops a slightly sweet flavor and a tender crumb. Ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, this easy-to-follow recipe guides you through each step to achieve homemade bread excellence.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups warm water (105-115˚ F)
- 5 Tablespoons melted unsalted butter (divided)
Dry Ingredients
- 4½ teaspoons instant rapid-rise yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon table salt
- 9–10 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water (105-115ËšF) with the instant rapid-rise yeast and granulated sugar. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the yeast to activate and become foamy.
- Add melted butter and salt: Once the yeast mixture is foamy, stir in 3 tablespoons of the melted butter and the salt, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add flour gradually: Begin adding the all-purpose flour one cup at a time, mixing continuously until a shaggy dough forms. You may need between 9 to 10 cups; the dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough, divide it if desired, and shape it into loaves or place it into greased loaf pans. Brush the tops with remaining melted butter and cover again to let rise for another 30-45 minutes until doubled.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Remove bread from the oven, brush with extra melted butter for softness and shine if desired, and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature is accurate for yeast activation; too hot water can kill the yeast.
- For best texture, do not add too much flour; the dough should remain slightly sticky.
- You can store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.
- Brush the bread with butter immediately after baking for a softer crust.
- If using loaf pans, grease them lightly to prevent sticking.
