Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
• No special equipment needed—just a bowl, a spoon, and a loaf pan
• Soft and fluffy texture with a slight chewiness
• Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter
• Freezes well for future use

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the softened butter and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
7. Cover again and let it rise for 30 minutes, or until the dough reaches the top of the pan.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 slices
• Calories: 150 kcal per slice

Variations

• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Honey Bread: Swap out the sugar for honey to add a touch of natural sweetness.
• Garlic Herb Bread: Mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for a savory twist.
• Cheese Bread: Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella) into the dough before shaping.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Not recommended, as refrigeration can dry out the bread faster.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf or slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture doesn’t turn frothy after 10 minutes, it may be expired or the water temperature might be too hot or too cold. Start again with fresh yeast.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step, mixing it directly with the dry ingredients.

Why did my bread turn out dense?

Over-kneading, under-kneading, or using too much flour can make your bread dense. Be sure to knead until smooth and elastic and measure flour correctly.

Can I make this bread without a loaf pan?

Yes! Shape it into a round loaf and bake it on a baking sheet instead. Adjust baking time as needed.

How can I get a softer crust?

Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking to soften the crust.

Why didn’t my bread rise?

Check your yeast's freshness, ensure the dough is in a warm environment to rise, and avoid adding too much flour.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries during the final mixing step.

How do I slice homemade bread without squishing it?

Let it cool completely before slicing with a serrated bread knife to avoid squishing.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and divide the dough into two loaves before baking.

Conclusion

This easy homemade white bread recipe is a must-have for any home baker. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a fresh, warm loaf straight from your oven. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time. Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade bread!