Go Back

Soft White Bread

A delightful and comforting bread that's soft and fluffy, perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with butter.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups warm water Essential for activating yeast.
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar Balances the flavors.
  • 1/4 ounce active dry yeast 1 packet or about 2 teaspoons.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Adds buttery richness.
  • 3.75 cups bread flour You may need as much as 4.5 cups.
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor without overpowering.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
  2. Add softened butter and 2.5 cups of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes.
  3. Gradually stir in an additional 1 to 2 cups of flour and salt until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for at least 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (30 to 45 minutes).
  6. Mist a 5-cup loaf pan with non-stick spray.
  7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently, shape it into a loaf, and place it in the prepared pan. Cover loosely with greased plastic wrap and allow to rise again until doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the loaf for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown and hollow when tapped.

Notes

For an even softer crust, brush the top with melted butter after baking. For flavored bread, consider adding herbs or garlic during mixing.