Welcome to the Baking Great Bread at Home Blog

Home › Blog


Welcome to the Blog

You’ve landed in the heart of Baking Great Bread at Home. Here you’ll find real recipes, tested techniques, and zero ads—because learning to bake great bread shouldn’t mean scrolling through someone’s life story first.

From sourdough starters to hydration ratios, oven setups, and shaping techniques, this blog is built to help you succeed—step by step.

Use the search bar at the top of the page to find exactly what you need. And if you get stuck, you’ve got support waiting below in the Ask the Expert chat.

Make yourself at home—and let’s get baking.
– Henry

  • Henry’s Big, Gooey Cinnamon Rolls

    Henry’s Big, Gooey Cinnamon Rolls

    Yesterday afternoon, Ryan called with one of those casual requests that isn’t casual at all: “Hey Dad, I’m coming home tomorrow. You still have those cinnamon rolls?” What cinnamon rolls? Then it hit me. Two weeks ago, he’d asked if I could make some for him and maybe double the…

  • Henry’s Big, Gooey Cinnamon Rolls (24 Rolls)

    Henry’s Big, Gooey Cinnamon Rolls (24 Rolls)

    These aren’t your average cinnamon rolls. Using the tangzhong method, these incredibly soft, bakery-quality rolls stay tender for days and deliver that perfect balance of gooey filling, rich frosting, and pillowy texture that’ll make you a breakfast legend. The overnight proof develops deep flavor while making your morning routine easier.

  • “Classic Yeasted Doughnuts Recipe – Paul’s Memorial #BakeAMemory”

    “Classic Yeasted Doughnuts Recipe – Paul’s Memorial #BakeAMemory”

    “We all have that special baking memory that transports us back in time. This recipe for classic yeasted doughnuts comes from Paul (‘Bald Baker Paul’), capturing the magic of Friday night doughnuts fresh from the fryer. These are the lightest, most flavorful doughnuts you’ll make at home, with an overnight…

  • The Baking Great Bread At Home Community Cookbook

    The Baking Great Bread At Home Community Cookbook

    Discover our new Community Cookbook featuring tested recipes from passionate home bakers. From scattered Facebook files to a professional platform where your recipes shine – see how we transformed our recipe sharing experience. No ads, no distractions, just clean recipes when you need them.

  • Your First State Fair Bread Competition: What I Wish Someone Had Told Me

    Your First State Fair Bread Competition: What I Wish Someone Had Told Me

    The smell hits you first. You walk into that competition tent at 7 AM. You’re surrounded by the aroma of dozens of fresh loaves cooling on tables. Bakers are making last-minute adjustments, brushing crusts with oil, trimming uneven edges. Your heart’s pounding because you’re about to put your bread up…

  • The Art of Marbled Yeasted Breads

    The Art of Marbled Yeasted Breads

    After last week’s beautiful cinnamon swirl loaves, we’re taking the swirl concept to the next level with marbled yeasted bread. This Sunday, we’re exploring three distinct marbled bread recipe techniques that will transform your baking. Think of it as painting with dough, where every slice reveals a unique pattern that’s…

  • Henry’s Whole Wheat Sourdough Recipe – Healthy & Delicious

    Henry’s Whole Wheat Sourdough Recipe – Healthy & Delicious

    “Learn to make healthy whole wheat sourdough bread with this foolproof recipe. Get perfect open crumb using 20% whole wheat flour. Easy step-by-step guide.” Foolproof Sourdough Recipe.

  • The Diabetic Baker’s Best Friend: Low-Carb Almond Flour Bread That Actually Tastes Like Bread 🍞

    The Diabetic Baker’s Best Friend: Low-Carb Almond Flour Bread That Actually Tastes Like Bread 🍞

    “Master diabetic-friendly almond flour bread with just 2g net carbs per slice. Perfect for blood sugar control without sacrificing taste or texture.”

  • Summer Sourdough: Refreshing Twists on a Classic

    Summer Sourdough: Refreshing Twists on a Classic

    The summer heat’s rolling in here in South Carolina, and I’ve been thinking about how to give my sourdough a seasonal makeover. There’s something magical about the smell of fresh bread mixed with summer flavors wafting through the kitchen. Over the years, I’ve learned to transform basic sourdough into something…

  • Why Summer Changes Your Dough

    Why Summer Changes Your Dough

    Summer heat can change everything about your dough. From sticky hands to wild fermentation, this guide breaks down how to stay in control during hot, humid months.

  • Proofing Isn’t the Clock’s Job

    Proofing Isn’t the Clock’s Job

    Tired of guessing when your dough is ready? This guide to proofing yeasted dough shows you how to read the signs—feel, shape, and texture—not just the timer. Ditch the clock and learn the foolproof way to perfect bread.

  • 🫐 Bakery-Style Blueberry White Chocolate Chip Scones

    🫐 Bakery-Style Blueberry White Chocolate Chip Scones

    Tall, tender blueberry white chocolate chip scones made for indulgent mornings. A rich cream-based dough, frozen butter, and the perfect rise.

  • Mastering Bulk Fermentation for Sourdough and Yeasted Bread

    Mastering Bulk Fermentation for Sourdough and Yeasted Bread

    Discover how mastering bulk fermentation transforms your dough from raw ingredients into something alive — with better structure, flavor, and feel.

  • Cinnabon-Inspired Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

    Cinnabon-Inspired Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

    These soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are inspired by the iconic Cinnabon but finished with Cheryl Oden’s signature cream cheese icing. A pour-over cream step makes them unbelievably tender.

  • Hybrid Sourdough Sandwich Bread

    Hybrid Sourdough Sandwich Bread

    This hybrid sourdough sandwich bread gives you the best of both worlds—rich flavor from your discard and a quick rise thanks to yeast. It’s soft, easy to slice, and perfect for toast, sandwiches, or snacking right out of the oven.

  • The Loaf and the Lie

    The Loaf and the Lie

    What if the bread we grew up eating wasn’t really bread at all? The Loaf and the Lie is a 27-page story about what we gave up, how it happened, and why so many of us are just now beginning to question it. Read the full flipbook or download the…

  • Ancient Grain Flour Baking

    Ancient Grain Flour Baking

    “Explore the world of ancient grain flours like einkorn and spelt in this comprehensive baker’s guide. Learn about their unique nutritional profiles, how they differ from modern wheat, and get started with simple recipes that showcase their distinctive flavors and baking properties.”

  • 🌟 Member Spotlight: Katrina Niesen, “The Sourdough Mama”

    🌟 Member Spotlight: Katrina Niesen, “The Sourdough Mama”

    Katrina Niesen, known as The Sourdough Mama, turns sourdough into a work of art. In this spotlight, she shares how bread helped her heal, why scoring is her therapy, and how she’s now teaching bakers around the world to create with confidence.

  • How Donna May Creates Artisan Crust with Steam (and How You Can Too)

    How Donna May Creates Artisan Crust with Steam (and How You Can Too)

    By Henry Hunter | Featuring insights from Donna May, Group Expert One of the most common questions we get in the Baking Great Bread at Home group is:“How do I get that golden, blistered, crackly crust like I see in artisan bakeries?” Well, there’s no one better to answer that…

  • Vietnamese Bánh Mì Baguette

    Vietnamese Bánh Mì Baguette

    Learn how to make authentic Vietnamese bánh mì baguettes at home—crisp on the outside, airy inside, and perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings. A true street food classic, made from scratch.

  • MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ROSE BURNS

    MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ROSE BURNS

    Rose Burns brings heart, humor, and heritage to her baking. From garlic dough donuts to rustic sourdoughs, her journey from a Fleischmann’s booklet in 1981 to full-flavored bakes today is nothing short of inspiring.

  • Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe for Easter ✝️

    Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe for Easter ✝️

    Few breads hold the seasonal charm and nostalgic pull of hot cross buns. Soft, lightly spiced, and dotted with raisins or currants, these iconic buns are finished with the unmistakable white cross — a symbol of tradition and celebration. Whether you bake them for Easter, a Sunday brunch, or simply…

  • 🍞 Marbled Blueberry, Cinnamon, and Honey Sourdough

    🍞 Marbled Blueberry, Cinnamon, and Honey Sourdough

    This beautiful marbled sourdough combines tangy bread with a hidden swirl of blueberry, cinnamon, and honey. A spring bake that’s equal parts art and flavor.

  • Member Spotlight:

    Member Spotlight:

    “In this Member Spotlight, we celebrate Bella Casa and her love for baking great bread at home. Learn about her favorite tools, scoring techniques, and the passion that goes into every loaf.”

  • Is Sourdough Really Better for You? Let’s Break It Down

    Is Sourdough Really Better for You? Let’s Break It Down

    “Sourdough isn’t just about great flavor—it’s also better for your gut. Thanks to the fermentation process, sourdough can produce resistant starch, break down gluten, and improve mineral absorption. Follow Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Recipe to make bread that’s easier to digest and packed with nutritional benefits.”

  • Member Spotlight: Debbie Eckstein

    Member Spotlight: Debbie Eckstein

    “Debbie Eckstein went from overthinking every step to mastering the art of sourdough and brioche. Her journey is proof that patience, tradition, and a little bit of self-doubt can lead to incredible bread. Read her story in this month’s Member Spotlight!”

  • Henry’s Blueberry Muffin Bread

    Henry’s Blueberry Muffin Bread

    “Henry’s Blueberry Muffin Bread is everything you love about a blueberry muffin, but in an easy-to-slice loaf. Bursting with juicy blueberries, a hint of orange zest, and topped with a golden, sugary crust, this quick bread is soft, moist, and perfect for breakfast or a snack. Simple to make, even…

  • A Chocolate Symphony: Priscilla Jolley’s Masterful Chocolate Sourdough

    A Chocolate Symphony: Priscilla Jolley’s Masterful Chocolate Sourdough

    “Working with chocolate in sourdough presents unique challenges that many bakers shy away from. Chocolate—particularly cocoa powder—can have a deleterious effect on gluten development. This happens for two main reasons: cocoa powder is acidic, which can interfere with gluten formation, and the fat content in chocolate can coat the flour…

  • The Magic of Yeast Water

    The Magic of Yeast Water

    “Fruit yeast water offers bakers a flavorful, low-maintenance alternative to traditional sourdough starters. This comprehensive handbook walks you through creating, maintaining, and baking with fruit-based yeast waters. Perfect for beginners who find sourdough intimidating or experienced bakers looking to explore new flavors, this guide covers seasonal fruit selections, troubleshooting tips,…

  • Brioche – The Buttery, Eggy Bread That’s Worth It

    Brioche – The Buttery, Eggy Bread That’s Worth It

    This rich, buttery brioche bread is soft, airy, and perfect for everything from French toast to sandwiches. With just the right balance of eggs and butter, this recipe delivers a golden, bakery-quality loaf every time.

  • Sourdough for the Rest of Us: (FREE Download!)

    Sourdough for the Rest of Us: (FREE Download!)

    “Sourdough baking doesn’t have to be complicated. Sourdough for the Rest of Us is the ultimate free guide for beginners and experienced bakers alike. No perfection required—just great bread. Download your copy today! https://bit.ly/3XjRKP3”

  • Blackberry Orange Galette

    Blackberry Orange Galette

    This Blackberry Orange Galette is as easy as it gets—flaky crust, juicy blackberries, and a hit of citrus to brighten everything up. I used oranges and a little lime, but you can go with whatever citrus you’ve got. A sprinkle of turbinado sugar gives the crust that perfect crunch. Bake…

  • How to Tell When Bread is Proofed

    How to Tell When Bread is Proofed

    Wondering if your dough is ready? Use the poke test and simple tricks to know exactly when to bake. No more guesswork—just great bread!

  • My Crusty White Bread – The Loaf That Started It All

    My Crusty White Bread – The Loaf That Started It All

    Looking for the perfect crusty bread recipe? This is the one. With a golden crust, soft interior, and simple method, this bread is perfect for any home baker.

  • Mastering the Art of Baguette Baking with Donna May

    Mastering the Art of Baguette Baking with Donna May

    “Light, airy, and full of flavor—Donna May’s baguettes, fresh out of the oven and ready for a generous slather of butter! 🥖 Hello, bakers! Today, we’re excited to spotlight one of our community’s founding members and expert bakers, Donna May. Donna has been instrumental in guiding many of us through the…

  • Understanding Flour Protein Content for Better Baking 🍞

    Understanding Flour Protein Content for Better Baking 🍞

    Learn how different flour types impact your baking results by understanding protein content. This guide breaks down the best flour choices for bread, cakes, and pastries.

  • 🧅🥖 Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel – Crispy, Savory, and Easy to Bake!

    🧅🥖 Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel – Crispy, Savory, and Easy to Bake!

    This Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel recipe combines a crispy, golden crust with sweet caramelized onions and nutty poppy seeds. Brought to us by Cheryl Odden, adapted from Sandhya Ramakrishnan of My Cooking Journey, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or serving with cream cheese!

  • Spelt Honey Sourdough 🍯🍞

    Spelt Honey Sourdough 🍯🍞

    Master the art of spelt sourdough bread with this step-by-step recipe. Packed with whole grain goodness, this loaf is nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for everyday baking.

  • Multigrain Sourdough Bread

    Multigrain Sourdough Bread

    Master the art of artisan sourdough bread with this step-by-step recipe. From fermentation to scoring, this guide will help you achieve a perfect loaf every time.

  • From Passion to Profit: A Baker’s Guide to Market Success 🥖

    From Passion to Profit: A Baker’s Guide to Market Success 🥖

    Thinking about selling your homemade bread at the farmers’ market? Many home bakers want to take that step but aren’t sure where to start. In this post, I break down key strategies—how to price your bread, set up an inviting booth, and confidently engage customers. Whether you’re just testing the…

  • Rosemary Garlic and Parmesan Loaf

    Rosemary Garlic and Parmesan Loaf

    This Rosemary Garlic Parmesan Bread is packed with bold, savory flavors, featuring fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese baked into a golden, airy loaf. With a crisp crust and an irresistible aroma, this artisan bread is perfect for markets, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home. Try it today and…

  • The Versatile Market Mainstay

    The Versatile Market Mainstay

    Selling homemade bread at a farmers’ market is more than just displaying loaves—it’s about creating an experience that draws customers in. Learn how to set up a welcoming stall, engage buyers, and make your bread irresistible.

  • Homemade Bagel Recipe

    Homemade Bagel Recipe

    These homemade bagels are chewy, golden brown, and made with a slow-rise dough for the best flavor. Boiled and baked to perfection, they’re easy to make at home!

  • Savory Irish Soda Bread

    Savory Irish Soda Bread

    This cheddar herb soda bread recipe is the ultimate no-yeast bread—quick, easy, and packed with rich flavor. With melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a crisp crust, it’s perfect for pairing with hearty meals or enjoying on its own.

  • Henry’s Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread

    Henry’s Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread

    This soft whole wheat sandwich bread recipe delivers a light, airy crumb and a golden crust, making it perfect for sandwiches or toast. Learn how to bake a nutritious, flavorful loaf with step-by-step guidance and pro tips for success.

  • Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Loaf

    Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Loaf

    Bake a perfect sourdough loaf with Henry’s Foolproof Sourdough Recipe—a 75% hydration, cold-proofed method designed for consistency and great flavor. With a crisp crust, airy crumb, and step-by-step instructions, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to refine their sourdough skills.

  • #FreshStart Challenge: Sweet Rolls with Stevia

    #FreshStart Challenge: Sweet Rolls with Stevia

    Looking for a healthier twist on your favorite sweet rolls? Try this sugar-free recipe using stevia! These fluffy, golden brown rolls are soft, tender, and made with simple ingredients like bread flour, yeast, and a touch of honey to help the yeast rise. Perfect for anyone looking to bake indulgent…

  • 🍑🍎 Blueberry Peach Apple Bread 🍞

    🍑🍎 Blueberry Peach Apple Bread 🍞

    “Have you ever baked a loaf so full of fruit it practically melts in your mouth? This Blueberry Peach Apple Bread is a showstopper. With juicy peaches, fresh blueberries, and crisp apples, it’s perfectly balanced and packed with flavor. Best of all, you don’t need water or milk—the applesauce and…

  • Understanding Yeast: The Tiny But Mighty Bread Builder 🔬

    Understanding Yeast: The Tiny But Mighty Bread Builder 🔬

    “Learn all about yeast—the essential ingredient for perfectly risen bread. Discover its types, uses, and tips to improve your baking with this detailed guide.”

  • Why Your Refrigerator Is Your Secret Weapon for Better Bread 🍞

    Why Your Refrigerator Is Your Secret Weapon for Better Bread 🍞

    “Unlock the secrets of professional-quality bread at home using your refrigerator! Cold proofing (or cold fermentation) is a game-changing technique that not only fits your busy schedule but also creates deeper flavors, better texture, and that perfect artisan crust. Learn why professional bakers swear by this method and how your…

Ask the Expert: Get Real Help, Right When You Need It

👋 Welcome, Baker—glad you’re here.
Have a question? Whether it’s hydration, flour swaps, starter care, or why your loaf split weird—I’ve got you. This blog is here to help.

🔍 Looking for something specific?
Use the search bar at the top to explore hundreds of posts and tutorials. Or scroll down to browse what’s new, what’s trending, and what’s useful right now.

🧠 Tip: You can ask the Expert anything—sourdough troubleshooting, recipe advice, even help converting yeast types or adjusting hydration. Try it out below.

Why Baking Bread at Home is Worth It

Baking bread at home not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, but it also allows you to control the ingredients. This means you can choose organic flour, avoid preservatives, and create breads that suit your taste and dietary needs. Additionally, the satisfaction of pulling a fresh loaf out of the oven is unmatched.

Think about the last time you bought a loaf of bread—did it have a long list of ingredients? By making your own, you can keep things simple. Flour, water, salt, and yeast are all you need for the most basic bread. And from there, the world of flavors and textures opens up.

Getting Started: Essential Tools for Home Baking

Before jumping into baking, it’s important to have the right tools. Here’s a brief overview of essential items you’ll need:

  • Digital Scale: Precise measurements are crucial for successful baking. Invest in a good digital scale to measure your ingredients accurately.
  • Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in various sizes will help you with everything from mixing your dough to letting it rise.
  • Dough Scraper: This tool makes handling dough easier and helps when transferring it to your baking surface.
  • Baking Stone or Steel: For optimal crust formation, a baking stone or steel can help retain and distribute heat evenly in your oven.
  • Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is essential for checking the doneness of your bread and ensuring your water is the right temperature for yeast activation.

Investing in these tools will set you up for success as you embark on your bread-baking journey.

Understanding the Ingredients: What Makes Great Bread?

At the heart of any great loaf of bread are its ingredients. Let’s break down the key elements that contribute to a delicious bread:

  • Flour: Different types of flour can yield different textures and flavors. For example, bread flour has a higher protein content, leading to a chewier texture, while all-purpose flour is more versatile.
  • Water: The temperature and quality of water can affect yeast activity. Always use filtered water for the best results.
  • Yeast: Fresh yeast often produces better results than dried yeast, but understanding how to work with both is essential for home bakers.
  • Salt: Not only does it enhance flavor, but salt also regulates yeast fermentation, preventing over-proofing.

Understanding these ingredients helps in troubleshooting problems, ensuring you can adapt recipes to your preference.

The Blog

7 Expert Tips for Perfect Bread

Here are seven expert tips to help you bake perfect bread:

  1. Start with a Good Recipe: Follow a trusted recipe as a guideline to understand the basics before experimenting.
  2. Proper Kneading: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten.
  3. Watch the Temperature: Use a thermometer to check if the dough has risen sufficiently and the bread is baked through.
  4. Let it Rise: Be patient during the rising process; it’s crucial for flavor and texture.
  5. Check for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready!
  6. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely to set the texture and flavor.
  7. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new flavors, shapes, or techniques. That’s part of the fun of baking!