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Easy Homemade White Bread

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This easy homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches or toast. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe with simple ingredients, delivering a classic loaf that’s better than store-bought. Perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ½ cups (540g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp (25g) sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast:
    In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.
  4. First Rise:
    Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Dough:
    Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  6. Second Rise:
    Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it rises about 1 inch above the edge of the pan.
  7. Bake:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
  8. Cool:
    Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For softer bread, brush the top with melted butter after baking.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.