Homemade White Bread Recipe

 Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked homemade white bread. This soft, fluffy, and buttery bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying warm with a spread of butter. Follow this easy recipe to create bakery-quality bread right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

* 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)

* ½ cup warm whole milk

* 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

* 2½ tablespoons granulated sugar

* 2 teaspoons kosher salt

* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

* 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Add the softened butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Divide it into equal portions and shape them into loaves. Place the dough into greased loaf pans.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the pans and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edges of the pans.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter for a soft, glossy finish. Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread

* Use fresh yeast for the best rise and texture.

* Avoid overheating the water, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.

* Bread flour produces a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour can be used if necessary.

* Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This homemade white bread recipe is simple, reliable, and incredibly delicious. With its soft texture and rich flavor, it’s the perfect everyday bread for your family. Once you try baking your own bread, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought loaves again!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Bake Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Servings: 2–3 loaves