There is something so comforting about making your own bread at home. It fills the kitchen with warmth, slows things down just a bit, and reminds us that simple food is often the very best.
In today's video, I'm sharing two easy ways to make homemade bread. First, I make a soft sandwich bread using my bread machine to mix the dough, then bake it in the oven. Next, I use my KitchenAid to make classic baguettes with that beautiful crust and soft inside.
Both of these are simple, practical methods that anyone can do.
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Why Make Bread at Home
- More affordable than store-bought
- No unnecessary additives
- Tastes better (by far!)
- A wonderful way to care for your family
This is a simple, everyday whole wheat sandwich bread that I make using my bread machine for the dough. It keeps things easy but still gives you that homemade, from-scratch goodness.
The combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour makes a softer loaf, and the honey adds just a touch of sweetness-perfect for toast or sandwiches.
WHOLE WHEAT SANDWICH BREAD (Bread Machine Dough + Oven Bake)
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 2 tablespoons oil
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 heaping teaspoon vital wheat gluten
Notes
Instructions
Step 1: Add Ingredients to Bread Machine
Add ingredients to your bread machine in this exact order:- Water
- Oil
- Honey
- Salt
- Whole wheat flour
- All-purpose flour
- Instant yeast
- Vital wheat gluten
Step 2: Mix Dough
- Set bread machine to the dough cycle
- Allow cycle to complete
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Remove dough from the machine
- Shape into a loaf
- Place into a lightly oiled bread pan
Step 4: Rise
- Place the pan in the oven with the light on
- Let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled
Step 5: Bake
- Remove bread from oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Once heated, bake for 35 minutes
Step 6: Cool
- Remove from the pan
- Let cool before slicing
- The honey gives a light sweetness-perfect for sandwiches or toast
- Vital wheat gluten helps create a softer texture in whole wheat bread
- Every kitchen is a little different-don't be afraid to adjust the flour slightly
If you want something a little more rustic, these homemade baguettes are such a great option. They're simple to make using a stand mixer and come out with that classic shape and texture we all love.
You can keep them plain or dress them up with garlic salt or everything bagel seasoning for a little extra flavor.
HOMEMADE BAGUETTES (KitchenAid Method)
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon yeast
Notes
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
- In your stand mixer (like a KitchenAid), add:
- Water
- Olive oil
- Sugar
- Salt
- Flour
- Yeast
- Mix on Speed 1 for a few seconds to combine
- Increase the speed to 2 and mix for 5 minutes
Step 2: First Rise
- Remove the dough hook
- Cover the bowl with a towel
- Place in oven with the light on
- Let rise for 35 minutes
Step 3: Shape the Baguettes
- Lightly oil your counter or work surface
- Turn out the dough
- Divide into 3 equal portions
- Roll each into a baguette shape
Step 4: Score & Optional Toppings
- Place loaves on a baking sheet
- Score each loaf with a sharp knife or razor (4-5 slashes)
- Brush with egg wash
- Sprinkle with:
- Garlic salt
- Everything bagel seasoning
Step 5: Second Rise
- Let the loaves rise for 35 minutes
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- Bake for 25 minutes, until golden brown
Step 7: Cool
- Allow to cool slightly before serving
Notes:
- Oiling the counter makes shaping easier and keeps the dough from sticking
- The egg wash gives a beautiful golden finish, but it's optional
- These are best fresh but can be reheated in the oven to crisp back up
Common Sense Tips
- Don't rush your rise time
- Use warm (not hot) water
- Flour amounts can vary-go by feel
- Practice makes perfect
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature for a few days
- Slice and freeze for longer storage
- Reheat baguettes in the oven for a fresh texture
Final Thoughts
Bread making doesn't have to be complicated. Start simple, keep practicing, and before long, it will feel like second nature.
This is one of those small, meaningful ways we can nourish our families well.
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