The Softest, Fluffiest Homemade White Bread You Can Make recipe

This homemade white bread recipe creates loaves that are soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying warm with a pat of butter. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll achieve bakery-quality bread at home.

Ingredients

• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
• Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise for soft, fluffy loaves.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and enhances flavor.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: Balances the flavor and strengthens the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a tender, light crumb.

Note: Ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the packets of yeast with ½ cup of warm water. Stir to mix and let sit for 5 minutes to activate.
2. Add the remaining 2½ cups of warm water, 3 tablespoons of room-temperature butter, sugar, and salt to the bowl.

Mix the Dough

1. Add 4 cups of flour to the bowl and stir to combine. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier mixing.
2. Mix on low speed for 10 minutes while gradually adding the remaining 3 cups of flour. The dough should be tacky but not sticky, and it should clean the sides of the bowl. Add flour by the tablespoon if the dough is too wet.

Shape the Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Avoid kneading; simply add a pinch of flour if it’s too sticky.
2. Place the dough ball in a large, oiled bowl, rolling it to coat in oil. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 50-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Loaves

1. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Work with one portion at a time, gently pressing to remove air pockets.
2. Shape the dough into a rectangle, roll it into a tube, tuck the ends, and place it seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Repeat for the second portion.

Brush and Bake

1. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lightly brush over the loaves.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the loaves for 30 minutes, rotating halfway through. Cover with foil if the tops brown too quickly.
3. Once baked, brush with additional melted butter and let cool in the pans for 15 minutes.

this Recipe

Cool and Slice

Remove the loaves from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

How to Serve

This bread is versatile and perfect for:

• Sandwiches
• Toast with butter, jam, or honey
• Dipping into soups or stews

Make Over

Make Ahead

Prepare the dough through the first rise and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Storing

Store bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic. Consume within 2-3 days, as it has no preservatives.

Freezing

Freeze whole loaves or pre-sliced pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour works well and may result in a slightly chewier texture.

How can I tell if the yeast is active?
The yeast mixture should become foamy within 5 minutes. If not, your yeast may be old or the water temperature too hot or cold.

Why is my bread dense?
Dense bread may result from under-proofing, over-kneading, or using too much flour.

This homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will deliver perfect loaves every time!

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