Classic Homemade White Bread Loaf

Classic Homemade White Bread Loaf

Introduction

There is something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. This Classic Homemade White Bread Loaf is soft, fluffy on the inside, and beautifully golden on the outside, with a light crumb that makes it perfect for slicing. Whether enjoyed warm with butter, used for sandwiches, or toasted for breakfast, this bread brings simple, timeless comfort to the table. Made with basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and experienced home bakers who want reliable, delicious homemade bread.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the bread rise properly.

Preparing the dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt, then mix well. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the ingredients come together into a soft dough. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.

First rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping the loaf
Punch down the risen dough gently to release excess air. Shape it into a loaf by flattening it slightly and rolling it tightly. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, seam side down.

Second rise
Cover the loaf again and allow it to rise for 30–45 minutes, until it rises just above the edge of the pan. This second rise gives the bread its light and airy texture.

Baking
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Cooling
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set properly.

Conclusion

This Classic Homemade White Bread Loaf is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Soft, tender, and full of homemade goodness, it is a recipe you can return to again and again. Whether served fresh, toasted, or used in your favorite sandwiches, this bread adds warmth and comfort to every meal. Would you enjoy it most with butter and jam, or as the base for a hearty sandwich?