Homemade White Bread is a timeless kitchen staple, soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a tender crumb. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home, and this simple recipe makes it easy to enjoy bakery-style white bread right from your own oven.
Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm with butter, this bread is made with basic pantry ingredients and delivers reliable, delicious results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft & Fluffy Texture – Light, tender crumb
- Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples only
- Beginner-Friendly – Easy steps, no special skills
- Versatile – Great for sandwiches, toast, or French toast
- Fresh & Homemade – Better than store-bought
- Freezer-Friendly – Bake once, enjoy later
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1½–2 hours
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: About 2½ hours
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. - Make the Dough
Add melted butter, salt, and flour gradually. Mix until a soft dough forms. - Knead
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. - First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour). - Shape the Loaf
Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan. - Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes. - Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 28–30 minutes until golden brown. - Cool & Serve
Remove from pan and cool on a rack before slicing.
How to Serve
- Best Uses: Sandwiches, toast, grilled cheese
- Serving Tip: Spread with butter while still warm
- Breakfast Idea: Perfect for jam or honey
- Pairings: Soups, stews, or chowders
Additional Tips
- Measure flour accurately to avoid dense bread
- Knead well for best structure
- Tent loosely with foil if browning too fast
- Brush top with butter after baking for softness
Variations
- Milk-Free Version: Use warm water instead of milk
- Slightly Sweet: Add 1 extra tablespoon sugar
- Dinner Rolls: Shape into rolls instead of a loaf
- Herb Bread: Add dried herbs for savory flavor
Storage & Freezing
- Room Temperature: Up to 3 days
- Refrigerate: Not recommended (dries bread)
- Freeze: Up to 2 months, sliced
- Reheat: Toast or warm briefly in oven
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Kitchen towel
- Cooling rack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, skip proofing and mix directly with dry ingredients.
Why is my bread dense?
Too much flour or under-kneading can cause density.
Can I make this without a mixer?
Absolutely, this recipe works well by hand.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it doubles easily.
Conclusion
Homemade White Bread is simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying to make from scratch. With its soft texture, golden crust, and classic flavor, this loaf is perfect for everyday use and special moments alike.
