Homemade White Bread
This homemade white bread recipe brings the joy of baking into your kitchen without the need for special skills or equipment. It’s an easy procedure that yields delightful results and is perfect for beginners.
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 120kcal
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Loaf Pan
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups warm water (105 to 110 degrees F)
- 1.5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 0.75 ounces active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Step 2: Once the yeast is activated, add the softened unsalted butter to the mixture. Stir gently to combine. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix until a dough begins to form.
- Step 3: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and begin to knead it. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Step 4: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Step 5: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back to the floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller pieces for sandwich rolls.
- Step 6: Place your shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until it has puffed up.
- Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Once the dough has finished rising, place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Step 8: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice your homemade white bread and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure your water is just warm to the touch – if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast. For a richer flavor, try using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.