The aroma of freshly baked homemade white bread wafts through the air like a warm hug from Grandma. Imagine that first bite—the crusty exterior giving way to a tender, fluffy inside. It’s the kind of experience that makes you want to do a happy dance in your kitchen.

you’re about to serve your family the freshest loaf of homemade white bread they’ve ever tasted. The smiles on their faces? Priceless. Baking this delightful treat isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories and filling your home with love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy homemade white bread recipe offers an incredible flavor while being simple enough for beginners.
- With minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for any meal or occasion.
- The golden crust and soft interior make it visually appealing and utterly irresistible.
- Versatile enough for sandwiches or toast, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
One time, I made this homemade white bread for a Sunday brunch, and let’s just say my friends thought I had taken up professional baking—little did they know my secret was just a trusty recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our bread; choose high-quality flour for the best results.
- Active Dry Yeast: Ensure it’s fresh; this little guy is what makes your dough rise and shine.
- Warm Water: Use water between 100°F and 110°F (37°C-43°C) to activate the yeast effectively.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a bit helps feed the yeast for that lovely rise we all want.
- Salt: This enhances flavor; don’t skip it unless you want bland-ish bread!
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the dough; feel free to substitute with olive oil if preferred.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Activate Your Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar before sprinkling in the active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy—like magic!
Create Your Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with melted butter. Mix until well combined—it should form a shaggy dough that looks like it has potential!
Knead Away!: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You want it to be soft yet slightly tacky—like that friend who’s always there but gives you space when needed!
Let It Rise: Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 hour. Patience is key here; go binge-watch your favorite show!
Punch Down & Shape: Once risen, punch down that dough like you’re letting out some frustration! Shape into a loaf by flattening gently and rolling tightly before tucking in the ends.
Bake It Up: Place shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Now you have a beautiful loaf of homemade white bread ready to be sliced or devoured straight from the oven! Enjoy every heavenly bite knowing you crafted this masterpiece yourself!
You Must Know
- Homemade white bread is not just delicious; it’s a comforting embrace in loaf form.
- The aroma of baking bread can turn any house into a home.
- Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathering with butter, it’s a versatile staple.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients, then add wet ones gradually. Knead until smooth and elastic for perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in whole wheat flour or add herbs for unique flavors. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store cooled homemade white bread in a plastic bag at room temperature. Reheat slices in a toaster or oven for freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip kneading; it develops gluten, giving your bread that perfect chew.
- Always use warm water to activate the yeast properly.
- Let your dough rise in a warm place for the best results.
Baking this homemade white bread brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of fresh bread was my favorite childhood memory.
FAQ
How long does homemade white bread last?
Homemade white bread typically lasts about 3-5 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze homemade white bread?
Yes, you can freeze homemade white bread for up to three months without losing quality.
Why is my homemade white bread dense?
Dense bread often results from under-kneading or not allowing enough time to rise.

Easy Homemade White Bread Recipe
Experience the comforting aroma and taste of this easy homemade white bread, perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (500g)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (420ml)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (25g)
- 1 tsp salt (6g)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (28g)
Instructions
- 1. Activate Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water with sugar. Sprinkle in yeast and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2. Create Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- 5. Shape: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf by flattening gently, rolling tightly, and tucking in ends.
- 6. Second Rise: Place in a greased loaf pan, cover again, and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool before slicing.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or incorporating herbs such as rosemary or thyme.
- To keep bread fresh longer, store it in an airtight container or bag at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg