homemade white bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
homemade white bread recipe
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The Best homemade white bread recipe

I’ve been making homemade white bread for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I love how it turns out every time. The process of making homemade bread is so satisfying, from the kneading to the rising, and the end result is always worth the effort.

My kids love helping me mix and knead the dough, and they’re always excited to see the final product come out of the oven. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special meal or just a regular Tuesday. The best part is that it’s so easy to make and customize to your liking.

I like to add different herbs or spices to give it a unique flavor. My family loves this bread so much that we often make it just because we want something fresh and delicious. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my favorite.

It’s simple, yet produces a deliciously soft and fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just on its own. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and following the instructions carefully. I like to use unbleached all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and pure sea salt to get that perfect flavor.

My family also loves how versatile this recipe is – we can make it into baguettes, ciabatta rolls, or even shape it into fun shapes like hearts or animals. Homemade white bread has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The process of making bread was first documented in 2500 BCE by Egyptian scribes who recorded the steps involved in mixing dough with yeast and baking it in clay ovens.

Over time, various cultures have adapted this basic recipe to create their own unique versions of homemade white bread.

Homemade White Bread

Homemade White Bread

4.8 from 785 votes

A simple and delicious homemade white bread recipe that is soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches or toast. This recipe requires basic ingredients and minimal effort.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar.
2Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
3The mixture should have a slight foam on top.
4In a large bowl, mix together flour and salt.
5Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour mixture.
6Stir until a dough forms.
7If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
8If it is too dry, add a bit more water.
9Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes.
10The dough should become smooth and elastic.
11To test if the dough is ready, perform the windowpane test.
12Stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers.
13If it stretches without tearing, the dough is ready.
14Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
15The dough should look puffy and airy.
16Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
17Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
18Cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise again for about 45 minutes, or until it has nearly doubled in size.
19The dough should be about 1 inch above the top of the pan.
20Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
21Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
22If the top of the bread begins to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Baking sheet
Oven
Loaf pan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a crisper crust, brush the top of the bread with a bit of milk or an egg wash before baking.

Watch Video Of How Homemade White Bread Works

This homemade white bread recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a regular day at home.

We love serving it with soups, stews or as sandwiches with our favorite fillings.

To store leftover bread, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About White Bread

Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using unbleached all-purpose flour as it provides a good balance of protein and texture.

Q: Can I use a stand mixer for kneading the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer for kneading the dough if you have one. However, I prefer kneading by hand as it helps develop the gluten in the dough.

Q: How long does the dough need to rise?

The dough needs to rise for about 1-2 hours depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

Q: Can I store leftover bread at room temperature?

No, it’s best to store leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Q: Can I freeze individual slices of bread?

Q: Can I make this recipe without yeast?

No, this recipe requires yeast as it’s essential for rising the dough.

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