Go Back
+ servings
White Bread Recipe

Homemade White Bread Recipe That's Soft and Irresistible

This Homemade White Bread Recipe is a beginner-friendly treat that results in a soft and fluffy loaf, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
First Rise 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Consider substituting half with whole wheat for a heartier loaf.
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Always check for freshness for best results.
  • 1.5 cups Warm Water 110°F is ideal to activate the yeast.
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar Can be swapped for honey.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt A crucial ingredient for balanced rising.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Melted butter is a tasty alternative.
Optional Add-Ins
  • Seeds or Herbs For added flavor and nutrition.
  • 1 cup Milk Use in place of water for a softer texture.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Loaf pan
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with the sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently to mix, and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until the surface becomes frothy and bubbly.
  2. Once the yeast is activated, add the olive oil and salt to the mixture. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, stirring until it forms a cohesive dough.
  3. Flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes, using your hands to stretch and fold until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  5. After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to remove excess air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
  6. Cover the loaf pan loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 375°F.
  7. Once the oven is preheated, carefully place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  8. After baking, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 1gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 2gCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Store your homemade bread in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze it for longer preservation. Always use warm water around 110°F to ensure successful yeast activation.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!