Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked homemade bread! This Easy Homemade White Bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or serving warm with butter.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500 g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1¼ cups (300 ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 large egg (optional, for a softer loaf)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
- Stir in the oil (or melted butter) and the egg, if using.
- Add the salt and 3 cups of the flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough is soft and slightly tacky.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until the dough rises about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom (or reaches an internal temperature of about 190°F/88°C).
- Remove from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 40 minutes
Tips
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture and better rise.
- Avoid adding too much flour—the dough should be soft, not dry.
- Brush the top with melted butter immediately after baking for a soft, shiny crust.
- Store in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy a warm slice with butter, jam, honey, or use it for sandwiches, French toast, or grilled cheese