Classic Homemade White Bread

Classic Homemade White Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups (360g) bread flour (you may need up to 3 1/2 cups)

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
   • Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dough:
   • Add the vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
   • Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should start to come together and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to grease the top. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
   • Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape Loaf:
   • Punch down the risen dough to release the air.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size again and rises slightly above the rim of the pan.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade white bread fresh out of the oven with some butter or your favorite spread!