Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

 

Here’s a detailed and unique article on how to make Easy Homemade White Bread, step by step. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and guarantees a soft, fluffy, and delicious loaf every time

 Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe – A Simple Step-by-Step Guide 

There’s something comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread. If you’ve ever thought about baking your own loaf but didn’t know where to start, this easy homemade white bread recipe is the perfect place to begin! It’s straightforward, requires no special skills, and delivers a soft, tender, and golden loaf that’s ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter.

Let’s walk through the process of making delicious homemade white bread!

Ingredients

To make one standard loaf, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 ¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (around 100°F/38°C)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra softness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

If you’re using active dry yeast, you’ll need to activate it first. This helps ensure the yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise.

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir gently to combine.
3. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to go

Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the water too hot or too cold. Try again with fresh yeast and properly warmed water.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the yeast is activating, you can prepare the dry ingredients:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Stir well to distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, add it to the flour mixture.
2. Add the softened butter and olive oil (if using) to the same bowl.
3. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together. Keep stirring until the dough begins to come together

Step 4: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
2. Start kneading the dough by folding it in half, pressing it down, and then turning it 90 degrees.
3. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little flour if the dough becomes too sticky. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.

 Tip: If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it to knead the dough on low speed for about 5-7 minutes

Step 5: First Rise (Proofing)

1. Grease a large bowl with a bit of olive oil or butter.
2. Place your kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat it in the oil.
3. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm place to rise.
4. Let the dough rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

 Tip: A warm, draft-free area (like the oven with the light on) is ideal for proofing your dough.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
2. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. To do this, fold the edges toward the center and roll it up tightly.
3. Pinch the seam closed and place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

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Step 7: Second Rise

1. Cover the pan with the kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
2. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Bake the Bread

1. Once the dough has completed its second rise, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. You can also check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer—when it reads 190°F (88°C), the bread is done

Tip: If the bread begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

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Step 9: Cool the Bread

1. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
2. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Don’t slice it while it’s hot, as the texture can be too gummy. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

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 Serving and Storing

• Slice and serve this easy homemade white bread with your favorite toppings, whether it’s butter, jam, or cheese. It’s perfect for sandwiches, French toast, or as an accompaniment to any meal.
• Store your bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can slice and freeze it for up to 1-2 months

Final Thoughts

Making bread at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can bake your own soft, fluffy white bread in the comfort of your kitchen. This recipe is straightforward and great for beginners, ensuring you get delicious results every time.

Give this easy homemade white bread recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of homemade bread in no time!

Happy baking