By This Bread in a Bag balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Bread in a Bag captures the essence of breads & pastries while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Bread in a Bag becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
PREPARATION STEPS
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Close the bag tightly and shake it gently to mix everything together.
Add the warm water, olive oil, and honey (if using) into the bag
Seal the bag and knead it gently with your hands until the dough comes together and forms a ball
This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, into the bag. Knead after each addition, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky but no longer too wet.
Once the dough is well mixed, seal the bag again and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
Once the dough has risen, carefully remove it from the bag and transfer it to a floured surface. Gently punch the dough down to release any air bubbles and shape it into a loaf.
Place the dough into the prepared loaf pan, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edges of the pan.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 10 slices
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 25 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min | Servings: 10 | Calories: ~260 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
