If you’ve been wanting to make fresh homemade bread without dealing with complicated kneading or special equipment, this recipe is for you. Bread in a bag is a simple, fun, and beginner-friendly way to enjoy a warm loaf straight from your oven. It takes only a few ingredients, requires no mixer, and fills your kitchen with that irresistible smell of freshly baked bread.
Why This Recipe Works
This method keeps everything easy and mess-free. The dough is mixed and kneaded right inside a resealable plastic bag, so there’s no flour all over the counter. It’s fast, convenient, and perfect for anyone who wants fresh bread without spending a lot of time or effort.
You can also personalize the flavor. Add herbs, garlic, or cheese to make the bread your own. The final loaf comes out soft and tender inside with a lightly crisp golden crust.
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 tablespoon active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
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Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing after baking
Tip: For a healthier loaf, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
How to Make It
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Add the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt to a large resealable plastic bag.
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Seal the bag, leaving a little space for the ingredients to move, and shake well to combine.
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Pour the warm water into the bag and seal tightly.
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Squeeze and massage the bag for about 5 minutes until the dough comes together and becomes smooth.
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Place the bag in a warm place and let the dough rest for 20–30 minutes, or until it roughly doubles in size.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Remove the dough from the bag and place it into the prepared pan.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
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Let the bread cool in the pan briefly, then transfer to a rack.
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Optional: Brush the crust with olive oil for extra shine and flavor.
Optional Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds, rosemary, or dried herbs on top before baking.
