There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and with this recipe for Simple White Bread, you can enjoy that experience anytime you like. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, making your own homemade bread is incredibly satisfying, and there’s no better place to start than with this classic white bread recipe. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a little bit of time and patience, you can create a loaf of soft, fluffy white bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own.
Who Will Love This Bread?
This Simple White Bread is perfect for anyone who appreciates the comforting simplicity of homemade bread. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe to experiment with in the kitchen or simply want to enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread from scratch, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, with its versatile nature, this bread is suitable for all ages and tastes, making it a staple in any household.
Why It’s a Must-Try
What makes this Simple White Bread recipe so appealing is its straightforward preparation and delicious results. With just a few basic ingredients – flour, yeast, water, salt, and a touch of sugar – you can create a loaf of bread that’s far superior to anything you’ll find at the store. Plus, by making your own bread at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your bread is free from any unnecessary additives or preservatives. Not to mention, the satisfaction that comes from slicing into a freshly baked loaf of bread that you made yourself is truly unbeatable.
Recipe: Simple White Bread
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 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.
- If desired, brush the top of the bread with melted butter for a shiny finish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Simple White Bread, you’ll need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Wire rack
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Simple White Bread (which is unlikely!), store it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before serving or reheating in the oven.
FAQ
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use bread flour if you prefer. Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which can result in a slightly chewier texture in the finished bread.
Can I add additional ingredients to the bread, like herbs or cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the bread by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or mix-ins like grated cheese, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. Just be mindful of the quantities and adjust the recipe as needed.
Can I make this bread by hand, without a mixer? Yes, you can knead the dough by hand if you prefer. Simply follow the instructions as written, but instead of using a mixer with a dough hook attachment, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Share the Bread Love!
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