Easy Homemade White Bread – Perfectly Fluffy Every Time
There’s something truly magical about baking your own bread—especially when it’s as easy and foolproof as this easy homemade white bread. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of patience, you can create a loaf that’s golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to morning toast.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade White Bread
There’s no fancy equipment or complicated techniques required here—just warm water, yeast, flour, and love. This bread has a slight sweetness, a soft crumb, and slices beautifully. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
✨ Golden crust and cloud-soft interior
✨ Just 4 ingredients and one rise
✨ Deliciously versatile—toast it, sandwich it, or enjoy it warm with butter
If you’ve been nervous about baking with yeast, this is the recipe to try first.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade White Bread
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
- 1 package (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ½–3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for softer texture)
- Butter (for brushing top, optional)
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or dough hook
- Loaf pan (8.5×4.5″ or 9×5″)
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in salt, then gradually add flour—1 cup at a time—until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Knead by hand or with a mixer for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add oil during kneading if using.
- Let it rise: Shape into a ball, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Shape and proof: Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place it into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Optional: brush top with melted butter.
- Cool: Let cool in pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Use a thermometer to check your water temp (110°F is ideal for yeast).
- Add just enough flour to make the dough manageable—too much and it’ll be dense.
- Cover loosely during rising to avoid sticking.
- Brush with butter while warm for a softer crust.
What to Serve With It
This homemade white bread pairs beautifully with:
- Classic grilled cheese or PB&J
- Stews, soups, or chili
- Breakfast with jam and coffee
- Try it with this Homemade Bread for a rustic Italian feel!
Storage Instructions
- Room temp: Store in a bread box or airtight bag for 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Slice and freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Toast slices or warm in oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
General Information
This white bread recipe is beginner-friendly and uses basic pantry ingredients. It’s naturally dairy-free and adaptable—add herbs, garlic, or swap some flour for whole wheat to mix it up.
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Use the same amount and skip the proofing step—just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Can I make this in a bread machine?
You sure can! Use the dough setting, then bake in the oven or machine.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
Your yeast may be expired or the water may have been too hot. Always proof your yeast to be sure!
Can I add whole wheat flour?
Yes—swap up to 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier loaf.
Conclusion
This easy homemade white bread recipe is the one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s soft, golden, and just the right mix of simplicity and comfort. Whether you’re baking your first loaf or your hundredth, this recipe never disappoints.
👩🍳 If you try it, tag @poulefrecipe on Pinterest and share your slice of success!
Also check out these baking favorites from Poulef.com:
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Easy Homemade White Bread (Beginner-Friendly & Soft!)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This beginner-friendly easy homemade white bread bakes up golden and fluffy with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for toast, sandwiches, or snacking warm from the oven.
Ingredients
1 cup warm water
1 package active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 ½–3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional)
Butter for brushing (optional)
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 mins until bubbly.
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Stir in salt and flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
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Knead 5–7 minutes. Add oil during kneading if using.
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Let rise 1 hour until doubled.
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Punch down and shape into a loaf. Place in greased pan.
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Let rise another 30–40 mins.
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Bake at 375°F for 25–30 mins. Brush with butter if desired.
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Cool before slicing.
Notes
Ensure water is not too hot (110°F max). Add just enough flour to make a soft dough. Store in airtight bag or freeze for later.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
