Classic Homemade White Bread

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate the Yeast

   Dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over top and let stand 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. 2

   Mix the Dough

   Add butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. 3

   Knead

   Turn out onto a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. 4

   First Rise

   Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 60 minutes until doubled.

5. 5

   Shape the Loaf

   Punch down and shape into a loaf. Place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch pan.

6. 6

   Second Rise

   Cover and rise 30 minutes until the dough crests above the pan.

7. 7

   Bake

   Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 28–32 minutes until golden brown and internal temp reaches 190°F. Cool on a rack.

Nutrition Facts

Tips & Tricks

• •Use a thermometer to check water temperature — too hot kills the yeast, too cold won't activate it.
• •For a softer crust, brush the top with melted butter right out of the oven.
• •Let the bread cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.