Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) warm water
Tip: Make sure your milk and water are warm but not hot (around 105°F/40°C). Too much heat can kill the yeast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect loaf of homemade white bread every time.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows your yeast is active and ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough begins to form.
Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time, but avoid adding too much.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a rectangle, then folding and tucking it tightly. Place it into a greased loaf pan (9×5 inch).
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the pan again and let the dough rise for another 30–40 minutes until it puffs up just above the pan’s edge.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top lightly with butter for a soft crust. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Perfect Texture Every Time: Baker’s Tips
- Use fresh yeast: Expired yeast won’t rise properly.
- Don’t over-knead: It can make the bread tough instead of soft.
- Let it cool: Cutting the bread while hot can make it gummy inside.
- Store properly: Keep it in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
Want to experiment with your white bread recipe? Try these delicious twists:
1. Honey White Bread
Replace sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey for a naturally sweet flavor.
2. Garlic Butter Loaf
Mix in a teaspoon of garlic powder and brush the top with garlic butter for a savory twist.
3. Milk Bread Style
Use only milk (no water) and add an extra tablespoon of butter for an ultra-soft texture.
Serving Ideas
Your freshly baked white bread can be enjoyed in so many ways:
- As breakfast toast with jam or butter.
- For sandwiches with deli meats, cheese, or veggies.
- As a side with soups and stews.
- Toasted and topped with avocado or scrambled eggs.
Why Homemade Bread Is Worth It
Baking your own bread not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also ensures you’re eating something free from preservatives, artificial flavors, or unnecessary additives. Every slice is wholesome, soft, and made with care — something store-bought bread can’t quite match.
Final Thoughts
This White Bread Recipe delivers a soft, fluffy, and delicious loaf every single time. It’s simple enough for beginners yet satisfying enough for experienced bakers. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought bread again.
So preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the joy of baking homemade white bread — warm, golden, and perfect in every way.
