Easy Homemade White Bread

 

Here’s a simple and foolproof homemade white bread recipe. It yields a soft, fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches or toast!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose or bread flour
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 43°C / 110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp (25g) sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp (30g) butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast

   • In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

   • In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
   • Add the yeast mixture and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

   • Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.

4. First Rise

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Loaf

   • Punch down the dough and shape it into a log.
   • Place in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second Rise

   • Cover and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

7. Bake

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Cool & Serve

   • Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade white bread! Let me know if you want variations, like adding seeds or making it dairy-free.