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Soft fluffy homemade white bread loaf sliced on wooden cutting board with golden domed crust, fine even crumb, two cups warm water, instant yeast, all-purpose flour, sugar, and melted butter baked at 350°F

White Bread

A soft, fluffy homemade white bread with a golden crust and tender crumb. Made with simple pantry ingredients and no special equipment required.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 148
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast one standard packet
  • 1 cup warm water around 110°F
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x5 inch loaf pan
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add salt, butter, and flour one cup at a time, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Rise in an oiled bowl, covered, for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape into a log and place seam-side down in a greased 9x5 loaf pan. Cover and rise for 30 to 45 minutes.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is deep golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  7. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Water should be around 110°F - too hot kills the yeast, too cold slows it down.
  • Do not slice until the loaf has cooled or the crumb will compress.
  • Freeze slices individually for easy toast straight from the freezer.