This classic homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, with a golden crust and tender crumb. It’s the kind of bread that smells amazing while baking and tastes even better fresh out of the oven. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just eating warm with butter.
Below is a full, detailed recipe so you can make bakery-quality bread at home.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
This recipe is a favorite because it’s:
- Soft and airy inside
- Light golden crust
- Simple ingredients
- Perfect for beginners
- Great for everyday use
Once you try homemade bread, it’s hard to go back to store-bought!
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (not hot)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2½ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or mixer
- Loaf pan
- Clean towel
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In a bowl, combine:
- Warm water
- Sugar
- Yeast
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
👉 If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be inactive.
Step 2: Making the Dough
Add:
- Salt
- Oil or butter
Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Kneading
Transfer dough to a floured surface.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until:
- Smooth
- Elastic
- Slightly sticky but manageable
Step 4: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl.
Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping
Punch down the dough gently.
Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Baking
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake for 25–30 minutes until:
- Top is golden brown
- Bread sounds hollow when tapped
Step 8: Cooling
Remove from pan and let cool on a rack.
This step prevents soggy texture.
Texture Secrets
Perfect white bread should be:
- Soft and fluffy inside
- Light and airy
- Slightly chewy
- Golden crust outside
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Dense bread
- Not kneaded enough
- Not enough rising time
Dry bread
- Too much flour
- Overbaked
Flat loaf
- Weak yeast or under-proofed
Flavor Variations
Milk Bread
Replace water with milk for softer texture.
Butter Bread
Add more butter for richness.
Herb Bread
Add garlic or herbs.
Sweet Bread
Increase sugar slightly.
Serving Ideas
Enjoy with:
- Butter
- Jam
- Honey
- Sandwich fillings
- Toast
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: 2–3 days
- Freeze slices for longer storage
Why This Recipe Is So Popular
Homemade white bread is loved because it’s simple, affordable, and comforting. The smell, texture, and taste are unmatched, and it can be used in so many ways.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use warm (not hot) water for yeast.
- Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Don’t rush rising time.
- Bake until golden, not pale.
Final Thoughts
This easy homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for everyday use. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create fresh, delicious bread right in your kitchen.