Making homemade white bread from scratch is easier than you think! This recipe delivers a soft, fluffy, and bakery-style loaf with a golden crust and a pillowy interior. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this foolproof recipe will help you achieve the perfect loaf every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients – You only need a handful of pantry staples to create a bakery-quality loaf.
Incredible Texture – The bread is soft, fluffy, and light with a golden, slightly crisp crust.
Versatile Use – Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and stews.
Better Than Store-Bought – No preservatives, just fresh, homemade goodness.
Beginner-Friendly – Even if you’ve never baked bread before, this step-by-step guide makes it easy.

Ingredients

flour
yeast
sugar
salt
warm water
unsalted butter or oil
milk

Directions

Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour along with melted butter or oil and milk. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.
Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Variations

Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Herb and Cheese Bread: Add grated cheese and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
Sweet Bread: Increase the sugar and add a touch of honey or vanilla extract for a sweeter version.
Garlic Butter Loaf: Brush the top with melted garlic butter after baking for a rich, savory taste.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Servings: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or a bread bag for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week; warm slices before serving.
Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Toast slices in a toaster or warm in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast doesn’t foam or bubble after 5-10 minutes in warm water with sugar, it may be expired or the water temperature may be too hot or cold.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be mixed directly with the dry ingredients without proofing. However, you may need slightly less of it.

Why is my bread dense instead of fluffy?

Dense bread is usually a result of under-kneading, not allowing enough rising time, or using too much flour.

How can I make the crust softer?

Brush the warm bread with melted butter right after baking to soften the crust.

Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

Yes! Use the dough setting for mixing and kneading, then shape the loaf and bake it in the oven for a better crust.

What is the best flour to use for white bread?

All-purpose or bread flour works best. Bread flour gives a slightly chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

Can I add eggs to this bread?

Yes, adding an egg can enrich the dough and create a softer texture.

How do I get a golden crust?

Brushing the top with milk or an egg wash before baking enhances the golden-brown color.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and divide the dough into two loaves.

What’s the best way to slice homemade bread?

Use a serrated bread knife and let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid squishing the loaf.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. This easy homemade white bread recipe delivers a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust, making it perfect for everyday use. Whether you enjoy it toasted with butter, as a sandwich, or simply on its own, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and experience the joy of baking from scratch!

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