Homemade White Bread

Nothing smells quite like freshly baked white bread coming out of the oven. There’s a comforting warmth to it, a nostalgic aroma that instantly makes a house feel like home. This recipe makes soft, fluffy loaves with a golden crust — perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathered with butter straight from the oven.

Baking bread might sound intimidating, but this beginner-friendly white bread recipe is simple, forgiving, and uses everyday pantry ingredients. With a little patience and love, you’ll have a loaf that’s every bit as cozy and satisfying as those bakery-style breads we all adore.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
• Optional: 1 tbsp milk for brushing the top

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Mix the Dough:
   Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
4. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
   Punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
   Cover the pan and let the dough rise for 30–45 minutes, until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
7. Bake the Bread:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Optional: brush the top of the loaf with milk for a shiny crust. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf — it should sound hollow.
8. Cool & Slice:
   Remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or toasted!

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Warm environment: Yeast rises best in a slightly warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cold, try preheating the oven to 200°F for 2 minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
• Flour tips: Different flours absorb liquid differently — start with 2 ½ cups and add more if the dough feels too sticky.
• Storage: Keep in a bread box or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze slices for up to 1 month.
• Avoid overbaking: Check the loaf at 25 minutes — golden brown with a hollow sound means perfect doneness.

Recipe Variations

• Honey White Bread: Replace 1 tbsp sugar with honey for a subtle sweetness.
• Whole Wheat Blend: Swap 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Garlic Herb Bread: Add 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp dried Italian herbs for savory flavor.
• Milk & Egg Enriched Bread: Replace water with ½ cup milk + ½ cup water and add 1 egg for extra soft, rich bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for sandwiches, grilled cheese, or French toast.
• Serve alongside soups, stews, or salads for cozy family dinners.
• Spread with butter, jam, or honey for an indulgent breakfast treat.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the simple joy of slicing into a warm, soft loaf of homemade white bread. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Every bite is a reminder that some of the best things in life are homemade — simple, wholesome, and made with love.

So preheat your oven, dust off that flour, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of your very own fresh-baked white bread.