Making homemade white bread is easier than you might think, and the result is a soft, delicious loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just with a little butter. Here’s a simple recipe for easy homemade white bread:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing the top)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast might be expired, so try again with fresh yeast.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the oil (or melted butter). Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, adding flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 4-5 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface, and shape it into a loaf by folding the edges in and rolling it tightly. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Second Rise: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside. Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Optional (Butter the Top): Brush the top of the bread with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips:
- If you want a fluffier texture, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to help with the rise.
- For a slightly different flavor, replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour.
- The bread will stay fresh for a few days at room temperature, or you can freeze it for later use.
Enjoy your freshly baked homemade white bread!