Nana’s No-Mixer Bread-in-a-Bag – Simple, Soft, and Homemade with Love

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large zip bag, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Seal the bag loosely, then shake gently to mix.
2. Let the bag rest for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes bubbly and foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!

Step 2: Start the Dough

3. Open the bag and add the oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Seal it again and squish the bag with your hands until everything is blended into a sticky dough. (Yes, this part is fun!)

Step 3: Add Remaining Flour

4. Add the remaining 1½–2 cups of flour, about ½ cup at a time, resealing and kneading after each addition until a soft, smooth dough forms. It should pull away from the sides of the bag and feel slightly tacky but not sticky.
5. If the dough gets too hard to knead in the bag, remove it and knead by hand for 2–3 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Shape and Rise

6. Shape the dough into a loaf or ball, depending on your preference. Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Cover lightly with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection