Baking your own white bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. This recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust, ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with homemade white bread that rivals any bakery.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Extra flour for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving approximately 12 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1 oz):
– Calories: 80
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 1g
– Fiber: 0.5g
– Sodium: 150mg
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter and salt, stirring gently.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture. Additionally, honey can replace sugar for a natural sweetness, and olive oil can be used instead of butter for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This white bread pairs beautifully with butter, jams, or honey. It can also be used for making sandwiches, French toast, or served alongside soups and salads for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast.
- Not kneading the dough long enough can result in a dense loaf.
- Over-proofing can cause the bread to collapse.
- Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking.
- Skipping the punch-down step can affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the water is at the right temperature.
- Experiment with adding herbs or spices for unique flavor variations.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may require additional water and adjustments to the baking time. The texture will also be denser.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) is also a good indicator.
Can I add ingredients like nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! You can mix in nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits during the kneading process for added flavor and texture.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Check the expiration date and ensure your water temperature was appropriate.
How can I achieve a crusty exterior?
For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam, or brush the dough with water before baking.
Conclusion
Making your own white bread is a fulfilling activity that results in delicious, soft loaves perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
White Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water about 110°F
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter and salt, stirring gently.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Nutrition
