Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to master the art of baking bread right in your own kitchen, this Easy Homemade White Bread recipe is the perfect place to start. With its irresistibly soft crumb and golden crust, this bread feels like a warm hug fresh from the oven. It’s approachable enough for beginners, yet yields results that taste like you bought it from an artisan bakery. Whether you’re slicing it up for sandwiches or simply enjoying a buttered piece, this recipe brings a whole new meaning to fresh bread day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Homemade White Bread lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build that tender texture, subtly sweet flavor, and perfect crust, creating a loaf that’s both comforting and versatile.

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body for your loaf, be sure to measure it properly for the best texture.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the bread rise and develop that airy fluffiness.
• 1 cup warm water (between 100°F and 110°F): Wakens up the yeast and helps to form the dough; warm but not hot to avoid killing yeast.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness that balances the bread perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for a well-balanced loaf.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and tenderness to every bite.

How to Make Easy Homemade White Bread

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by combining warm water with sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy and alive—this is a sign your yeast is ready to work its magic in the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the yeast activates, whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl. This blend forms the base of your bread dough, so making sure the salt is evenly distributed is key for consistent flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the softened butter and the bubbly yeast mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir them together until everything starts to come together into a shaggy dough.

Step 4: Knead to Perfection

Turn out your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about eight minutes. This step develops the gluten that gives your bread that perfect chew and elasticity, so don’t rush through it!

Step 5: First Rise

Pop your dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and place it somewhere warm. Allow it to rise for about an hour until it doubles in size—this transformation is the key to your bread’s airy texture.

Step 6: Shape and Second Rise

Gently punch down the dough to release the air, shape it into a loaf, and set it in a greased pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This final proofing gives the bread its lovely volume and tenderness.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes, until it is beautifully golden and sounds hollow when tapped. The smell alone will have you ready to slice in immediately!

How to Serve Easy Homemade White Bread

Garnishes

While this bread tastes divine on its own, you can dress it up with a spread of herb butter, a light drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of garlic and parsley right after baking for added charm and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair a warm slice with soups like creamy tomato basil or hearty chicken noodle. It also complements fresh salads or charcuterie boards wonderfully, adding a simple but satisfying carbohydrate companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try toasting slices and topping them with avocado and a dash of chili flakes for a modern twist, or make delightful mini sandwiches for a party platter. You can also cube the bread, toast the cubes, and toss them into a salad for a crunchy surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh and soft for up to three days—perfect for quick snacks or sandwiches.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice your bread, place parchment paper between slices, then wrap the whole loaf in freezer-safe wrap or a bag. It freezes beautifully for up to three months and retains its fresh-baked taste after thawing.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, pop slices into the toaster or warm the whole loaf in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. A quick brush of butter afterwards will complete the experience.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Bread flour has more protein which can give your Easy Homemade White Bread a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works perfectly well for a soft and tender loaf.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

Check that your water wasn’t too hot or cold as this can kill the yeast. Also, make sure the yeast is fresh and your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free spot to rise well.

Can I add seeds or herbs to this recipe?

Definitely! Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme, or sprinkle seeds like sesame or poppy on top before baking for a flavorful twist on your Easy Homemade White Bread.

How long will homemade bread stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, your bread will stay fresh for up to three days. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet to maintain that just-baked quality.

Is there a way to make this bread whole wheat?

You can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind the dough may need a bit more water and kneading time, and the loaf will have a denser texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a warm, fragrant loaf of Easy Homemade White Bread right out of your oven. It’s simple, rewarding, and fills your kitchen with the kind of cozy aroma that invites everyone to gather around. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find yourself baking bread regularly, delighting friends and family with slices of pure comfort.

Print