Name: white bread recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1.5 teaspoons sugar; 2 tablespoons salt; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup butter, softened

What is the ultimate comfort food? Bread.white breadRemember the smell of grandma’s kitchen, warm and yeasty?What is the best white Bread Recipe?Will bring you right back there, I promise. Forget those dense, store-bought loaves – this one is unbelievably soft, fluffy, and perfect for baking. Everything from grilled cheese to toast with a smear of butter. Think of it as the simpler, even more versatile cousin of sourdough, without all the fuss and fuss. Is it the kind of bread that makes everything better, and honestly, it’s easier to make than you think?

What is white bread?

What exactly is *is*?white breadIt’s essentially bread made with refined wheat flour, which gives it that characteristic lightness. Color and soft texture. Think of it as the blank canvas of the bread world. Is it a classic, the perfect base for so many things? What is the heart of a good sandwich? Star of many comfort food moments. Is it something we all know and love, but often take for granted?What is the best white Bread Recipe? aims to elevate that humble loaf to something truly special.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why am I so obsessed with this stuff?What is the best white Bread Recipe?. First, the flavor is just incredible. It’s subtly sweet, with a delicate crumb and crust that’s perfectly golden and slightly chewy. What I love about this is how easy it is to make. Don’t let bread making intimidate you! This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. I have most of the ingredients in my pantry already. And the versatility? From sandwiches and toast to bread pudding and croutons, this bread can do it all.What is the best white bread recipe?What are some of the best store-bought breads? It also rivals some fancy bakery breads I’ve tried, and I’m not just saying that. What’s the perfect base for avocado toast in the morning? What are some quick sandwiches for kids?

How do you make white bread?

Quick Overview

This What is a good white Bread RecipeIs it surprisingly simple to proof yeast first, then mix wet and dry ingredients? After a first rise, you’ll shape the dough and let it rise again in the loaf pan. What is the secret of baking a cake until golden brown? What gives bread its airy texture? What is a good beginner’s bread recipe?

Ingredients

For the Main Dough:
* 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting. I prefer unbleached flour for a slightly better flavor.
* 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F). Make sure it’s not too hot, or it will kill the yeast!
* 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet). I always buy the big jar because I bake so often.
* 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar. Just regular white sugar works great here.
* 1 teaspoon (6g) salt. Don’t skip the salt; it balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
* 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter). I have used both, and they both work perfectly fine. The butter does add a *slight* richness, though!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Set aside. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. How do you know if the yeast is alive? If it doesn’t foam, your yeast is probably old, and you’ll need to get new yeast. I always check the expiration date before starting.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until you have rolled out dough. It will be sticky, and that’s okay!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

How do you make dough? Turn out on a floured surface. What should I do if I want to make a dough that is smooth and elastic? Knead for 8-10 minutes. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, if you like. I like to set a timer and put on some music – kneading can be therapeutic!

Step 4: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1. I usually put it in the oven with the light on for 5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

How do you press dough down to release air? Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into an easy loaf. How do you do this by gently stretching and folding the dough into itself, then tucking the ends together? Aim for a smooth, even shape.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the loaf in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches its maximum temperature. Is it reaching the top of the pan? Where is the best place to live?

Step 7: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the sides. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it!

Step 8: Cool

How do I remove a loaf from tin and let it cool completely on the wire rack before cutting? Is this the hardest part of the whole process? If you slice it while it’s still warm, it will result in a gummy texture.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Slice and serve!white breadWith butter, jam, or your favorite sandwich fillings.

What do you serve it with?

This What is the best white bread recipe?Is incredibly versatile, so the possibilities are endless!For Breakfast:What are some good ways to toast avocado and top it with a fried egg? Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. I love a slice of this toasted with cinnamon sugar!For Brunch:Use it to make French toast or grilled cheese sandwiches. Serve it with a fresh fruit salad and mimosas. It also makes great croque monsieur.As Dessert:Make bread pudding or use it for Strawberry Shortcake. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. What is a bread pudding made with?For Cozy Snacks: Serve it with soup or chili. Use it to make grilled cheese sandwiches. Sometimes I just toast a slice and dip it in olive oil – simple but satisfying!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your White Bread

Want to take your white bread recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh! Old yeast won’t rise properly. I always check the expiration date and store my yeast in the refrigerator. If you are unsure about your yeast, test it in warm water with sugar before starting the recipe.

Kneading: Don’t be afraid to knead the dough! Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading for the best results. If you don’t feel like kneading by hand, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Just be careful not to over-knead, as this can result in a tough bread.

Rising: Give the dough enough time to rise! The rising process is crucial for developing the bread’s flavor and texture. I usually let my dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours for the first rise, and 30-45 minutes for the second rise. You can also do a slow rise in the refrigerator overnight for a more complex flavor.

Baking: Keep an eye on the bread while it’s baking! Every oven is different, so the baking time may vary. I usually start checking the bread after 30 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil. The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cooling: Let the bread cool completely before slicing! This is important for preventing a gummy texture. I usually let my bread cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. This is the hardest part, I know, but it’s worth it!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your homemade white bread fresh, here are a few tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or bread bag for up to 3 days. This will help prevent it from drying out. I usually keep mine in a plastic bread bag on the counter.

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. However, the bread may dry out slightly in the refrigerator, so it’s best to toast it before eating.

Freezer Instructions: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight in the refrigerator. I always slice the bread before freezing so I can just take out a few slices at a time.

Reheating: To reheat, toast the bread or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

While this recipe is specifically for traditional white bread made with wheat flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Look for blends that are specifically designed for bread making, as they often contain ingredients like xanthan gum to help bind the dough. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or the baking time.

Why isn’t my dough rising?

There are several reasons why your dough might not be rising. The most common is that your yeast is old or inactive. Make sure to check the expiration date on your yeast and store it properly. Also, make sure your water is warm enough (105-115°F) but not too hot, as hot water can kill the yeast. Another possibility is that the room is too cold. Yeast thrives in warm environments, so try placing your dough in a warmer spot, like in your oven with the light on.

Can I use a bread machine?

Yes, you can definitely use a bread machine for this recipe! Simply add the ingredients to your bread machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Select the white bread setting and let the machine do its thing. Just make sure to keep an eye on the dough during the kneading process to ensure it’s not too wet or too dry.

Can I add herbs or other flavorings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add herbs, spices, or other flavorings to your dough. Some popular options include rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Just add the flavorings to the dough during the kneading process.

Why is my bread so dense?

Dense bread can be caused by several factors. One possibility is that you didn’t knead the dough enough. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Another possibility is that you didn’t let the dough rise long enough. Make sure to give the dough enough time to double in size during the first rise, and to reach the top of the pan during the second rise.

Final Thoughts

This white bread recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to simple pleasures, to home, and to the joy of baking. The incredible flavor, the ease of making it, and the sheer versatility make it a winner every time. If you enjoyed this, you might also like my easy dinner roll recipe or maybe even my cinnamon swirl bread. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the magic of homemade white bread for yourself! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations!