Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dough in a Bag
- Grab a large, sturdy ziplock bag (gallon-size works best).
- Add 1 cup flour, sugar, and yeast into the bag.
- Pour in the warm water, seal the bag, and squish everything together until combined.
- Let the bag sit at room temperature for 10 minutes so the yeast activates. You’ll notice bubbles forming as the yeast gets foamy—this is how you know it’s working!
2. Add More Ingredients
- Add vegetable oil, salt, and another cup of flour into the bag.
- Seal the bag and squish again until everything is mixed.
- Finally, add the last 1 cup of flour and continue kneading the dough inside the bag. This should take about 5 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a smooth ball.
3. Shape & Let Rise
- Open the bag and turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
4. Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on top.
5. Cool & Serve
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy warm with butter, jam, honey, or your favorite spread!
Why Bread in a Bag Works So Well
This method is a foolproof way to make homemade bread without worrying about kneading techniques or making a mess. Since everything is mixed inside the bag, you don’t need a mixer, and cleanup is as easy as tossing the bag in the trash.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to make this recipe even healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber!
Common Questions About Bread in a Bag
1. Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes! If using instant yeast, you can skip the 10-minute activation step and mix all ingredients right away.
2. What If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If the dough is sticking to the bag too much, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes easier to handle.
3. Can I Add Flavors to This Bread?
Absolutely! Try mixing in:
🧄 Garlic powder & herbs for a savory loaf
🧀 Shredded cheese for cheesy bread
🍯 Cinnamon & honey for a slightly sweet version
4. How Do I Store This Bread?
- Store in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for 2-3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze slices in a ziplock bag and reheat in the toaster when needed!
Final Thoughts
Homemade Bread in a Bag is an easy, no-fuss way to enjoy freshly baked bread without the mess. It’s perfect for baking with kids, teaching beginners, or just making a quick loaf without extra dishes. Once you try it, you’ll see why my Nana refuses to buy store-bought bread anymore!
