Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water, warmed to 110°F (45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk, heated to 110°F (45°C)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the water to 110°F (45°C). In a small bowl, mix the water with the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, warmed milk, salt, 2 cups of flour, and the remaining sugar. Stir well to combine. Gradually add the rest of the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, then shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips:

• For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter after baking.
• Let the bread cool fully before slicing to avoid a sticky texture.

Total Time:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking time: 35 minutes

Nutrition:

• Serving: 12 slices
• Calories: 170 per slice