As National Bread Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate one of the most beloved and versatile foods in the world. Bread has been a staple of our diets for centuries and comes in many shapes, sizes, and flavors. Whether you prefer a classic loaf of sourdough or a sweet and fluffy brioche, there’s a bread recipe out there for everyone. In honor of National Bread Day, here are a few tasty recipes to try out.

1. Classic Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. This tangy and chewy bread is packed with flavor and makes the perfect canvas for everything from butter and jam to deli meats and cheeses. Making sourdough bread from scratch can be a bit time-consuming, but the end result is well worth the effort. The process begins with creating a sourdough starter, a mixture of flour and water that ferments and creates that distinctive sour flavor. Once your starter is ready, you’ll combine it with flour, water, and salt to create a dough that will undergo a series of fermentations and rises before being baked to perfection.

2. Garlic and Herb Focaccia

Focaccia is a wonderfully versatile bread that’s perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, or salads. This Italian flatbread is characterized by its dimpled surface and is often flavored with herbs, olive oil, and sometimes garlic. Making focaccia from scratch is relatively simple and requires just a few basic ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, salt, olive oil, and whatever herbs and seasonings you prefer. The dough is stretched out onto a baking sheet and allowed to rise before being baked to a golden brown. Serve it warm with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a truly irresistible treat.

3. Cinnamon Raisin Bread

For those with a sweet tooth, cinnamon raisin bread is the perfect way to indulge in a delicious breakfast or snack. This soft and fragrant bread is swirled with a sweet cinnamon and sugar filling and studded with plump raisins. Making cinnamon raisin bread at home is a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. After mixing and kneading the dough, you’ll roll it out, sprinkle it with the cinnamon sugar mixture and raisins, and then roll it up into a loaf. The bread is then left to rise before being baked to a delightful golden brown.

These are just a few examples of the countless bread recipes out there waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, National Bread Day is the perfect excuse to roll up your sleeves and get baking. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to celebrate this beloved food in all its delicious forms. After all, is there anything better than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen? Happy National Bread Day!