Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

There’s just something magical about baking your own bread, and this Easy Homemade White Bread is the perfect way to fill your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas. With a handful of everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, you’re only a couple of hours away from a soft, fluffy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. This recipe brings amazing flavor and texture with zero fuss, making it a must-try for beginner bakers and seasoned bread lovers alike!

Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple this ingredient list is! Each item has a special role to play in creating the classic flavor, tenderness, and golden crust that make Easy Homemade White Bread such a beloved staple.

  • Warm water: Helps activate the yeast and gives the dough the right consistency—make sure it’s not too hot or cold for best results.
  • Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast, encouraging a nice rise and subtle sweetness throughout the loaf.
  • Active dry yeast: This is your leavening powerhouse, ensuring a fluffy, airy bread every time.
  • Vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and moisture, giving the finished loaf its irresistible soft crumb.
  • Salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the delicate wheatiness in each slice.
  • All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of the loaf, forming structure and that perfect chewy bite.

How to Make Easy Homemade White Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

To kick things off, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast right on top. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes; you’re looking for a creamy, foamy layer that shows the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Bring the Dough Together

Once the yeast is nice and bubbly, mix in the oil (or melted butter) and salt. Then, gradually add the flour—start with one cup at a time—mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, dust in just enough extra flour until it’s manageable but still tender.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

Lightly flour your countertop, then turn out the dough and knead by hand for 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels smooth, elastic, and springs right back after a poke. This step ensures your Easy Homemade White Bread has a perfect, even crumb.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a greased bowl, swirling it around to coat the surface lightly with oil so it won’t dry out. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and set someplace warm. After an hour, the dough should have doubled in size and look pillowy and light.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Gently punch down your dough to release extra air. Shape it into a loaf by rolling or tucking the edges under, then set it in a greased 9×5-inch pan. Let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes; it should puff up and rise about an inch above the pan’s edge.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pop the risen loaf into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top will turn a lovely golden brown, and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped. Let it sit in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove and cool on a wire rack for the best texture.

How to Serve Easy Homemade White Bread

Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Brush the top with melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven for a beautiful shine and added flavor. You can also sprinkle on a touch of flaky sea salt or a blend of dried herbs if you’re feeling adventurous!

Side Dishes

Warm slices of Easy Homemade White Bread pair beautifully with hearty soups, crisp salads, or a spread of cheeses and fresh fruit. For breakfast, try it alongside eggs and bacon, or simply slather with your favorite jam.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the loaf thick and making decadent French toast, or use the bread as a base for classic grilled cheese sandwiches. Cubed and toasted, it transforms in a flash into the perfect homemade croutons for salads or soups.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your Easy Homemade White Bread in an airtight bag or bread box at room temperature. It will stay delicious and fresh for about 3 days—just be sure to avoid refrigeration, as it can make homemade bread go stale more quickly!

Freezing

To freeze, slice the cooled loaf, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and stash in a freezer-safe bag. Your bread will keep for up to 3 months; you can thaw slices individually as needed for quick breakfasts or lunches.

Reheating

Gently warm slices in a toaster or oven set to low heat for just a few minutes. If reheating an entire loaf, wrap it in foil and place in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until soft and warm, just like freshly baked!

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! You can substitute instant yeast without needing to dissolve it first. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients. Keep an eye on rising times, as instant yeast might work a bit faster.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can shape your dough into a round or oval and bake it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. It won’t have the classic sandwich loaf shape but will taste just as wonderful!

How do I know my bread is done baking?

The loaf should be golden on top and sound hollow when you tap it. If you want to be extra sure, use an instant-read thermometer—the center should hit about 190°F.

Can I add ingredients like seeds or herbs?

Definitely! Mix in extras like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs right after adding the flour. These additions turn Easy Homemade White Bread into your own signature loaf.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just use two loaf pans and be sure to check both for doneness—a larger dough batch might add a minute or two to the bake time.

Final Thoughts

Baking your own Easy Homemade White Bread is such a rewarding experience, and your friends and family will absolutely love every warm, golden slice. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen—there’s truly nothing like a loaf of fresh bread made from scratch!

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Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe


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4.8 from 32 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
  • Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Learn how to make a delicious and easy homemade white bread with this simple recipe. This classic bread is perfect for sandwiches or toast!


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Dissolve and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit until foamy. Add oil, salt, and gradually mix in flour.
  2. Knead Dough: Turn out the dough, knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
  3. Shape and Rise: Punch down dough, shape into loaf, place in pan. Let rise for 30–40 minutes.
  4. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding. Cool on a wire rack.

Notes

  • Brush top with melted butter for a soft crust.
  • This bread is great for slicing and makes perfect toast or sandwiches.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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