Description
Learn how to make the best homemade white bread from scratch! This easy recipe produces a soft, fluffy loaf with a perfect crust, ideal for sandwiches and toast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil, melted
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra softness)
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
- In a bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture and melted butter or oil.
- Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes.
4. First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover for the second rise (about 30–45 minutes).
6. Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Cool and Enjoy
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite spreads.
Notes
- Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Milk Bread: Replace water with milk for an even softer texture.
- Honey-Sweetened: Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
- Garlic Herb Bread: Add minced garlic and dried herbs for a flavorful twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Bread, Baking
- Method: Kneading, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade white bread, easy bread recipe, sandwich bread, soft white bread, baking bread from scratch