This soft and fluffy white bread is the perfect foundation for a comforting meal or snack. Whether you’re spreading butter, crafting a gourmet sandwich, or enjoying it plain, this bread is versatile and utterly satisfying. Its golden crust encases a tender and airy crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, this recipe comes together with ease and yields impressive results. Homemade bread has a way of turning any kitchen into a warm, inviting space, and this recipe is sure to make your home smell heavenly while filling your table with joy.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4½ teaspoons instant yeast (two 0.25-ounce packets)
- ¾ cup + 2⅔ cups warm water, divided
- ¼ cup (52 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 3 tablespoons (43 g) unsalted butter, cubed, at room temperature
- 9 to 10 cups (1200 g) all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons (43 g) unsalted butter, melted, for brushing
Directions:
- In a mixer bowl, dissolve the yeast in ¾ cup of warm water and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining 2⅔ cups water, sugar, salt, room-temperature butter, and 5 cups of flour. Stir to combine.
- Using a dough hook, mix on low speed while adding the remaining flour gradually until a soft, tacky (but not sticky) dough forms. Knead for 7-10 minutes until the dough clears the sides of the bowl.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a draft-free area for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into two portions. Shape each into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Roll tightly from the short end into cylinders, seal the seams and ends, and place into greased 9-inch loaf pans.
- Cover the loaves loosely and let rise until doubled in size, 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F, positioning the rack on the lowest setting.
- Brush the loaves with melted butter and bake for 30-35 minutes, rotating halfway through. The loaves should be golden brown, with an internal temperature of 195°F.
- Brush the loaves again with melted butter, cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pans. Let cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: 253 kcal per serving | Servings: 20 servings (2 loaves)
The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Homemade White Bread: Why This Recipe Stands Out
When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the simple pleasure of homemade white bread. This recipe has been crafted with precision and care, resulting in tall, fluffy loaves that are soft on the inside and golden on the outside. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, making it accessible to everyone.
The Origins of This Recipe
The foundation of this white bread recipe lies in the timeless traditions of bread-making. Passed down through generations, it embodies the charm of classic baking while incorporating modern techniques to simplify the process. The recipe was inspired by the need for a reliable loaf that could rival store-bought bread in both texture and flavor, without any of the unnecessary additives or preservatives commonly found in commercial products.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Soft, Fluffy Texture
Achieving the perfect texture is the hallmark of great bread, and this recipe delivers on all fronts. By using instant yeast and a methodical approach to kneading and proofing, the bread develops an airy crumb that is both soft and elastic. The buttery crust provides the ideal contrast to the tender interior. - Tall, Picture-Perfect Loaves
If you’ve ever been disappointed by flat, dense loaves, this recipe will change your perspective. It’s designed to yield beautifully tall loaves, thanks to the perfect balance of yeast, hydration, and kneading time. The technique of tightly rolling the dough into cylinders before placing it in the loaf pans ensures a uniform rise and shape. - Simple and Versatile Ingredients
Made with pantry staples like flour, yeast, sugar, and butter, this recipe keeps things simple without compromising on taste. These basic ingredients come together to create a versatile bread that complements everything from sandwiches to French toast. - Quick and Reliable Process
While many bread recipes require extensive proofing and waiting times, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between efficiency and quality. In just over two hours, you can enjoy freshly baked bread that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness.
Health Benefits of Homemade Bread
- Control Over Ingredients
Baking your bread means you have full control over what goes into it. You can avoid unnecessary additives, artificial preservatives, and excess sugar, resulting in a healthier loaf that aligns with your dietary preferences. - Lower Sodium Levels
Store-bought bread often contains high levels of sodium. This recipe allows you to adjust the salt content to your taste, making it a heart-healthier option. - No Hidden Allergens
For those with food sensitivities or allergies, making bread at home eliminates the risk of encountering allergens like soy, which is commonly found in commercial bread. - Improved Digestibility
Freshly baked bread, especially when made with high-quality ingredients and proper fermentation, is often easier to digest than processed bread.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Yeast
The quality of your yeast can make or break the recipe. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active by proofing it in warm water before mixing. - Gradually Add Flour
Avoid adding too much flour at once. Start with the lower end of the range and gradually incorporate more until the dough is soft and tacky, but not sticky. - Knead with Care
Proper kneading develops the gluten structure, giving the bread its characteristic texture. If using a stand mixer, knead for 7-10 minutes until the dough clears the sides of the bowl. - Create the Ideal Rising Environment
Bread dough rises best in a warm, draft-free environment. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest until it doubles in size. - Brush with Butter
Brushing the loaves with melted butter before and after baking adds flavor and keeps the crust soft.
Creative Ways to Enjoy This Bread
- Classic Sandwiches
The soft, fluffy texture of this bread makes it ideal for sandwiches. Layer it with your favorite deli meats, cheese, and fresh veggies for the perfect lunch. - Toast Perfection
Lightly toast a slice and slather it with butter, jam, or avocado for a simple yet satisfying breakfast. - French Toast Delight
Transform day-old bread into a luxurious breakfast by dipping slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon before frying them to golden perfection. - Bread Crumbs or Croutons
Stale bread can be repurposed into homemade bread crumbs or croutons, adding flavor and crunch to your favorite dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Make This Recipe by Hand?
Absolutely! While a stand mixer speeds up the process, this recipe can be made entirely by hand. Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon and knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. - Can I Substitute Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, active dry yeast can be used instead of instant yeast. Be sure to proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dough. - Can I Freeze This Bread?
Yes, this bread freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf before freezing for easy access to individual portions. Simply wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
Making bread from scratch is a deeply rewarding experience. Beyond the practical benefits, it’s an opportunity to connect with the age-old tradition of baking. From the moment you mix the dough to the satisfying aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, this recipe turns a simple loaf into a cherished memory. It’s not just about baking bread—it’s about creating something with your hands that nourishes both body and soul. This white bread recipe is perfect for busy families, bread enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a versatile and foolproof addition to their culinary repertoire. Try it today and experience the magic of homemade bread.