Homemade White Bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying warm with butter. This classic recipe creates a tender loaf with a golden crust and wonderful fresh-bread aroma that fills the kitchen.
⏱️ Recipe Details
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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Bake Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
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Servings: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
🛒 Ingredients
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
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1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
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2 tablespoons sugar
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2 tablespoons butter (softened)
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1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon salt
🍳 Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Make the Dough
Add butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour.
Mix well, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
Cover and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes until it rises slightly above the pan.
7. Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool
Remove from the pan and let the bread cool on a rack before slicing.
🍽️ Ways to Enjoy Homemade Bread
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Spread with butter and jam
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Use for sandwiches
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Make French toast
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Toast with honey or peanut butter
💡 Tips for Perfect Bread
Use warm—not hot—water:
Hot water can kill the yeast.
Knead well:
Proper kneading develops gluten and makes the bread soft.
Check doneness:
Tap the loaf on the bottom—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.
Storage:
Keep bread in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze slices for longer storage.