Easy Homemade White Bread
This soft and fluffy white bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep forever!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or warm to the touch)
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the top of the water and sugar mixture.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This means the yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Mix the Dough:
- Add the salt and vegetable oil (or melted butter) to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually stir in the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
- Stir until you have a soft dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour as needed. However, avoid adding too much flour, or the bread will be dense.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat the top with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
- Punch the dough down to release the air.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover it again with the towel and let it rise for 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat the 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.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Check Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, as high heat can kill the yeast.
- Add Flour Gradually: Add flour in small amounts to avoid making the dough too stiff or dense.
- Store Properly: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Soft and Fluffy: Perfect for all your bread needs, whether for sandwiches or just enjoying a slice with butter.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, it’s an easy recipe to follow with ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Customizable: Want to add a twist? Feel free to incorporate herbs, seeds, or cheese into the dough for an extra flavor boost!
Enjoy your Easy Homemade White Bread and don’t forget to share the love!