the Best White Bread from Scratch
Learn how to make the best homemade white bread from scratch with simple ingredients and easy steps. This recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or any meal. Freshly baked bread will fill your home with an irresistible aroma!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 standard loaves
- Category: Bread, Homemade
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons softened butter
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast – In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve, then sprinkle yeast over the mixture. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
- Mix the Dough – In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and butter. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir until dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Knead dough in the bowl for 8-10 minutes. The dough will be sticky, but avoid adding more flour.
- First Rise – Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Loaves – Punch down the dough, divide into two portions, and shape each into a loaf. Place in greased loaf pans.
- Second Rise – Let the dough rise for 30-45 minutes, until it rises 1 inch above the pan edge.
- Bake – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy – Let cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For a richer texture, substitute milk for water.
- Add dried herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Try cinnamon swirl bread by rolling the dough with cinnamon and sugar before shaping.
- For garlic bread, mix in minced garlic and olive oil.
