Fluffy Homemade White Bread

Fluffy Homemade White Bread

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. This Fluffy Homemade White Bread recipe produces a soft, airy loaf with a golden crust that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. Making bread at home might seem daunting, but this recipe is straightforward and results in a loaf that’s well worth the effort. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s far superior to anything from the store!

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is foamy, which indicates that the yeast is active.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and softened butter. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little more flour as needed, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
7. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Conclusion

This Fluffy Homemade White Bread is a testament to the joy of baking. With a tender crumb and soft, airy texture, each slice is a delight. Not only does homemade bread taste better, but it’s also free from preservatives, making it a healthier choice for your family. Whether you enjoy it with butter, jam, or as part of a meal, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Embrace the rewarding process of bread-making and enjoy the delicious results!