Here’s an easy homemade white bread recipe with step-by-step instructions!
Ingredients:
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose or bread flour
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons (25g) sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter (melted) or vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. (If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix everything directly.)
Step 2: Mix the Dough
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add the activated yeast mixture and melted butter (or oil). Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead for 5–6 minutes with a dough hook.)
Step 4: First Rise
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
6. Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf.
7. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes until it puffs up.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. (Tap the top—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.)
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
10. Remove from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade white bread! Let me know if you need any variations or tips.