Description
Soft, fluffy, and rich in flavor, this homemade white bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Master the art of baking with straightforward steps and pantry staples, creating a versatile loaf ideal for sandwiches, toast, or buttered slices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ¾ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp (12g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant or active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
Combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. - Mix the Dough:
Gradually add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Add softened butter and mix to combine. - Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes on medium speed. - First Rise:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. - Shape the Dough:
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, fold in the sides, and tightly roll it from one end to the other to form a loaf. - Second Rise:
Place the loaf seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises just above the edge of the pan. - Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. - Cool and Serve:
Transfer the bread from the pan to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Storage: Keep at room temperature for 2–3 days in plastic wrap or an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Toast slices or bake the loaf at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes wrapped in foil.
- Tips:
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Add seeds, herbs, or mix-ins for variety.
- Brush with melted butter post-baking for a glossy crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Homemade white bread Easy bread recipe Soft and fluffy bread Beginner bread recipe Baking bread from scratch