Introduction
Homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and comforting — a kitchen classic that fills your home with a delicious aroma. Making your own loaf lets you control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and enjoy a fresh, warm slice straight from the oven. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but yields bakery-quality results.
🧺 Ingredients
4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
2 ¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 ½ tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for brushing)
1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and butter.
Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface.
Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook on medium speed for 6–8 minutes.)
4. First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat.
Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough to release air.
Shape into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until it doubles.
6. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool & Serve
Brush the top with melted butter for a soft crust.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
📝 Description
This classic white bread is light, fluffy, and slightly sweet — perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even French toast. The soft crumb and golden crust make it a family favorite that tastes best when fresh from the oven.
💡 Tips
Make sure your yeast is fresh and not expired.
Don’t add hot water; it can kill the yeast.
For a softer crust, brush the top with butter right after baking.
To store, wrap tightly in plastic or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
🌀 Variations
Honey Bread: Replace sugar with 2 tbsp honey.
Garlic Bread Loaf: Add 1 tsp garlic powder and 2 tbsp grated parmesan.
Whole Wheat Mix: Replace 1 cup white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Herb Bread: Add 1 tbsp dried herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) for extra flavor.
✅ Correction
If your bread turns out dense:
Check your yeast freshness.
Allow full rising time — don’t rush it.
Knead well to develop gluten.
If your crust is too hard:
Brush with butter while it’s hot or cover with a clean towel as it cools.
😋 Enjoy
Slice it thick, spread some butter, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade white bread — warm, soft, and perfect any time of day!