There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This easy homemade white bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It’s soft, fluffy, and the perfect companion to butter, jam, or even a hearty soup. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a loaf so satisfying that it will become a staple in your household.
Bread-making is a time-honored tradition that connects us with generations of bakers who’ve come before. While many think making bread at home is challenging, this recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re serving it with breakfast or using it for sandwiches, this homemade white bread is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you won’t need to make an extra trip to the grocery store!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (approximately 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 package active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by dissolving the sugar in 1 cup of warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the yeast to bloom and activate. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks frothy and bubbly. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, salt, and vegetable oil (or melted butter). Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, transfer it to a floured surface.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can test if the dough is ready by performing the “windowpane test.” Stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers—if it forms a thin, translucent layer without tearing, it’s good to go.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size and rises slightly above the edges of the pan.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial to ensure the bread holds its shape and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade white bread is incredibly versatile:
- Breakfast: Spread with butter and your favorite jam.
- Lunch: Use it for sandwiches with deli meats, cheese, or roasted veggies.
- Dinner: Serve alongside hearty soups or stews.
Pro Tips
- Measure Precisely: Too much flour can make the bread dense. Use a kitchen scale or lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
- Warm Environment: If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in a slightly warmed oven (around 80°F/27°C).
- Customization: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or oats on top before baking for added texture.
Making homemade white bread is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and delicious smells. This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can experiment with different flours, seeds, and spices. Whether you’re making it for your family or as a gift, this bread will always be a hit. Try it today and rediscover the simple joys of homemade baking!