There’s something magical about the smell of fresh bread baking in your kitchen. Making white bread from scratch may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you think, requiring only a few pantry staples and some patience. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners who want to experience the satisfaction of baking their own bread. Soft, fluffy, and deliciously golden, this homemade white bread is versatile enough for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to your favorite meals.

Crafted with care, this bread recipe ensures perfect results every time. You’ll learn tips for kneading, proofing, and baking to achieve that quintessential airy crumb and golden crust. Whether you’re preparing breakfast, packing a lunch, or looking for a dinner side, this bread will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Easy to Follow: The step-by-step directions make this recipe foolproof, even if you’ve never baked bread before.

Budget-Friendly: Homemade bread is cheaper than store-bought options, with better taste and fewer additives.
Customizable: Add herbs, cheese, or seeds to make it your own.
Impressive Results: The golden crust and soft interior will wow your family and friends.

Therapeutic Process: Kneading and shaping dough is a calming, hands-on experience.

Making bread from scratch connects you to a tradition passed down through generations. You’ll appreciate every slice more knowing the effort that went into creating it. Whether you’re sharing it at a family dinner or savoring it warm with butter, this recipe is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 ½ tsp salt

2 tbsp sugar
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Equipment Used

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Stand mixer (optional)

Clean kitchen towel
Loaf pan (8×4 inches)
Oven

Directions & Instructions

Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough 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 minutes.

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 loaf)
Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 28g

Protein: 4g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 200mg

Prep Time and Cook Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.

Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a denser texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be substituted. Skip the proofing step and add it directly to the flour.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! After the first rise, shape the dough, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Why is my bread dense?
Ensure the yeast is fresh and that the dough is kneaded thoroughly to develop gluten.

Pro Tips By Elisa

Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is warm but not hot (110°F is ideal).
For a shiny crust, brush the top with melted butter immediately after baking.

Let the bread cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with butter or jam for breakfast.
Pair with soups and stews for a comforting meal.

Use it for sandwiches or French toast.

How to Make the Best White Bread from Scratch

Elisa

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 2 50

Course bread

Cuisine American

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Stand mixer (optional)
Clean kitchen towel
Loaf pan (8x4 inches)

Oven

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast

1 ½ tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
1 ½ cups warm water 110°F

2 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Turn the dough 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 minutes.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise: Cover and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is warm but not hot (110°F is ideal).
For a shiny crust, brush the top with melted butter immediately after baking.

Keyword Homemade Bread Easy