Easy Homemade White Bread 🍞

By Jason Griffith | ChefManiac.com

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, this Easy Homemade White Bread delivers a fluffy, buttery loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathering with butter while it’s still warm.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by yeast, this recipe is for you. It’s straightforward, beginner-friendly, and far better than anything store-bought.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This bread has it all: a golden crust, a tender crumb, and a mild, buttery flavor. Whether you’re pairing it with Crockpot Nacho Dip for game day or using it to mop up Sunday dinner with Easy Turkey Wings, it’s always a hit.

And the best part? It only takes about 15 minutes of hands-on time—most of the magic happens while the dough rises.

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Ingredients

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Bloom the Yeast

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add sugar and stir gently. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy—this means the yeast is active and ready.

2️⃣ Make the Dough

Add salt, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour ½ cup at a time, mixing until the dough pulls away from the bowl’s sides.

3️⃣ Knead

Transfer to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This builds gluten and gives the bread its signature chew.

4️⃣ First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5️⃣ Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

6️⃣ Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

7️⃣ Butter & Cool

Brush the top with melted butter for added flavor and shine. Cool slightly before slicing.

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Tips for Success

• Trap Steam: Cover the loaf with a clean towel as it cools for an extra-soft crust.
• Swap Flours: Use bread flour for a chewier texture and more structure.
• Freeze It: This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap slices individually for toast-ready mornings.
• Rise Smart: Let your dough rise in the oven with just the light on—perfect temperature!

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Serving Suggestions

This white bread is the ultimate blank canvas. Serve it:

• With This One-Pan Breakfast Bake for a cozy weekend brunch
• Slathered with jam or peanut butter
• As a base for grilled cheese or garlic toast
• Alongside No-Bake Cookie Classics for a nostalgic snack moment
• Toasted with butter and a hot cup of tea for an easy breakfast

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More Recipes You’ll Love

• These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
• These Easy Turkey Wings
• This Crockpot Nacho Dip
• This One-Pan Breakfast Bake

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Final Thoughts

Homemade bread doesn’t need to be complicated. With this easy white bread recipe, you get all the satisfaction of baking from scratch with none of the stress. It’s perfect for beginners, beloved by pros, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Tried it? Let us know how it went in the comments below—and don’t forget to follow for more cozy, crave-worthy bakes from Chef Maniac! 🧈🍞👇