Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe

There’s something truly magical about baking your own bread at home. The warm, yeasty aroma fills the kitchen, and the first slice—soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy—is pure comfort. This Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe is a beginner-friendly yet foolproof method that delivers bakery-quality results every time.

I started making this recipe because store-bought bread just didn’t cut it—too many preservatives, not enough flavor. I wanted something fresh, soft, and homemade without complicated techniques. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing more satisfying than pulling a golden, perfectly risen loaf from the oven!

If you’ve ever been intimidated by making bread from scratch, this recipe will change that. It’s simple, requires just a handful of pantry staples, and the results are better than anything you can buy at the store.

Keep reading to discover how to create the perfect homemade white bread with a light, fluffy texture and a golden crust—you won’t believe how easy it is!

Why I Love This Recipe

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What makes this recipe special? It’s soft, fluffy, and incredibly versatile—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying warm with butter.

Unlike some bread recipes that require multiple rises and intricate kneading techniques, this one is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You don’t need fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and a little patience.

Another reason I adore this recipe is that it brings back memories of childhood—watching my grandmother knead dough with practiced hands and waiting eagerly for a fresh slice slathered with butter.

With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a homemade loaf that’s far fresher and healthier than store-bought alternatives.

Ingredients for Easy Homemade White Bread

A great loaf of bread starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. You likely have everything you need right in your kitchen.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour (or bread flour) – This provides the structure. Bread flour gives a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose works beautifully.
• Warm water (110°F-115°F) – Helps activate the yeast. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, while water that’s too cool won’t activate it properly.
• Active dry yeast – The heart of any great bread. This gives the loaf its rise and signature fluffy texture.
• Granulated sugar – A small amount of sugar feeds the yeast and enhances the flavor.
• Salt – Essential for balancing the flavor and strengthening the dough.
• Butter (melted) or vegetable oil – Adds richness and keeps the bread soft and tender.

That’s it! No preservatives, no unnecessary additives—just wholesome, simple ingredients.

How Much Time Will You Need

This homemade white bread requires a bit of patience, but most of the time is hands-off.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: About 2.5 hours

It’s worth every minute—you’ll have fresh, warm, bakery-quality bread that’s well worth the wait!

How to Make This Easy Homemade White Bread

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a perfect loaf every time!

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter (or oil). Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour—just a tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface, shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, until it rises just above the edge of the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Resist the urge to cut into it immediately—letting it cool ensures a perfect texture.

Substitutions

No yeast? No problem! Try baking soda and lemon juice (1 teaspoon each) as a quick-rise alternative.

• Flour alternatives: Bread flour makes the loaf chewier, while whole wheat flour adds fiber. For a softer texture, use a mix of both.
• Dairy-free version: Swap butter for olive oil or coconut oil.
• Lower sugar: Reduce sugar to ½ tablespoon without affecting the texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade White Bread

This bread is delicious on its own, but even better when paired with something tasty!

1. Homemade Strawberry Jam – The perfect combination of sweet and buttery goodness.
2. Creamy Tomato Soup – Nothing beats the classic soup-and-bread combo.
3. Garlic Herb Butter – Spread a little on a warm slice for an irresistible treat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A fresh loaf of homemade bread deserves to be served beautifully. Here’s how to make it look as good as it tastes:

• Let it Cool Properly – Resist the urge to slice it immediately. Cooling on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes helps maintain the structure.
• Use a Serrated Knife – A sharp, serrated bread knife ensures clean slices without squishing the loaf.
• Brush with Butter – For a glossy, golden finish, brush the top with melted butter while it’s still warm.
• Pair with Homemade Spreads – Serve with honey butter, whipped herb cream cheese, or fruit preserves for an elevated touch.

A warm slice paired with a homemade spread or soup creates the ultimate comforting meal.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Want your homemade white bread to be even softer, fluffier, and more flavorful? Here are some expert tips:

• Use Bread Flour for a Chewier Texture – If you want a bakery-style chew, substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for extra gluten development.
• Add an Egg for Richness – For a softer and slightly richer loaf, add one beaten egg to the dough mixture.
• Let the Dough Rise Slowly – If you have extra time, allow the first rise to happen in the fridge overnight. This improves the flavor and texture.
• Steam for a Crisper Crust – Place a shallow pan of hot water in the oven while baking. This creates steam and gives the loaf a crispier crust.
• Check Doneness with a Thermometer – The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) for a perfectly baked loaf.

With these simple tricks, your homemade white bread will rival the best artisanal bakery loaves!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking bread can be intimidating for beginners, but avoiding these common pitfalls will set you up for success:

• Using Water That’s Too Hot or Too Cold – Yeast thrives at 110°F-115°F. Too hot? You’ll kill the yeast. Too cold? The dough won’t rise properly.
• Skipping the Second Rise – The second proofing develops the texture. If you bake too soon, the bread will be dense and heavy.
• Adding Too Much Flour – Adding extra flour during kneading can make the bread too dry. The dough should be slightly tacky, not stiff.
• Not Kneading Enough – Proper kneading develops the gluten. Under-kneaded dough leads to crumbly, weak bread.
• Overbaking – A loaf left too long in the oven becomes dry. Stick to the baking time and check for a golden-brown crust.

Avoid these mistakes, and your homemade white bread will turn out perfect every time!

How to Store It

Homemade bread doesn’t contain preservatives, so it’s best enjoyed within a few days. Here’s how to store it properly:

Short-Term Storage (1-3 Days)

• Wrap the bread in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or a clean kitchen towel to keep it soft.
• Store at room temperature in a bread box or airtight container.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy thawing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in a warm oven for a fresh-baked taste.

Refreshing Stale Bread

If your bread starts to dry out, don’t throw it away!

• Sprinkle with water and warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.
• Make homemade croutons or turn it into French toast.

With proper storage, you can enjoy homemade bread anytime without waste!

FAQ

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can substitute instant yeast 1:1 for active dry yeast. Just mix it directly into the flour without proofing in water first.

2. Why is my bread dense instead of light and fluffy?

This usually happens due to not enough kneading, skipping the second rise, or using too much flour. Ensure the dough is properly kneaded and allow enough rising time.

3. Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap out butter for olive oil or coconut oil, and the recipe remains deliciously soft.

4. What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?

• Make sure your yeast is fresh and water is at the correct temperature (110°F-115°F).
• Place the dough in a warm spot—near the oven or in a slightly warmed microwave can help.

5. How can I make this recipe whole wheat?

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you use 100% whole wheat flour, add an extra tablespoon of honey or water to keep it soft.

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