There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. This soft and fluffy bread recipe delivers a light, airy texture with a tender crumb and subtle buttery flavor. Perfect for breakfast toast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying warm with a pat of butter, this homemade loaf is comfort food at its finest. With basic pantry ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a bakery-worthy bread that everyone will love.
Preparation Time
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Rise time: 1 hour 45 minutes
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Bake time: 25–30 minutes
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Total time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
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2 tablespoons sugar
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2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon salt
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 large egg
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. -
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. -
Knead
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook) until smooth and elastic. -
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size. -
Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough to release air. Shape into a loaf or divide into rolls, and place in a greased loaf pan or baking tray. -
Second Rise
Cover and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffed and nearly doubled. -
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. -
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool on a wire rack. For a softer crust, brush with melted butter while still warm.
This soft and fluffy bread is a true kitchen staple—easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always satisfying. Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted the next morning, each bite delivers cozy, homemade comfort. Once you’ve made this loaf, it just might become your go-to recipe for everyday bread baking.