Homemade Bread Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect loaf of homemade white bread, look no further. This recipe delivers soft, fluffy, golden loaves with a slightly chewy crust—ideal for sandwiches, toast, or slathered with butter straight from the oven. Made with only six pantry staples, it’s a simple and foolproof recipe that even beginners can master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No special equipment required — No stand mixer or bread maker needed.
• Pantry-friendly — No milk, eggs, or butter required.
• Freezes beautifully — Make ahead or store for later.
• Customizable — Easily adapted into cinnamon swirl, raisin bread, or dinner rolls.
• Perfect texture — Soft and pillowy with a tender crumb and just the right crust.

Ingredients

2 cups warm water (105-115 degrees) (474g)
1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
1/4 cup honey or sugar (85g honey, 50g sugar)
2 teaspoons salt
2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable)
4 – 5 1/2 cups all-purpose or bread flour (500g–688g)

Directions

Proof the Yeast

In a large bowl (or stand mixer bowl), combine 2 cups warm water, 1 tablespoon active dry yeast, and a pinch of your honey or sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy and bubbly. If the yeast doesn’t foam, discard and start again with fresh yeast.

Mix the Dough

Add the rest of the honey/sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 tablespoons oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix until combined.
Gradually add 1 more cup of flour, mixing as you go. Then, continue adding flour 1/2 cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is soft, smooth, and only slightly sticky.

Knead the Dough

Knead using a stand mixer on medium speed for 4–5 minutes, or by hand on a lightly floured surface for 5–8 minutes, until elastic and smooth.

First Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaves

Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide into 2 equal portions. Shape each into a log and place into greased 9×5” loaf pans (optionally lined with parchment on the bottom).

Second Rise

Cover each loaf loosely with greased plastic wrap or a lightweight towel. Let rise again in a warm spot for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the dough rises about 1 inch above the pan.

Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake loaves on the lower-middle rack for 30–33 minutes, or until golden brown and the tops sound hollow when tapped.

Cool and Slice

Immediately invert the loaves onto a wire cooling rack. Brush tops with butter, if desired, and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Fresh yeast is essential — Always check expiration dates.
• Too much flour = dense bread — The dough should be slightly tacky, not dry.
• Speed up rising — Preheat oven to 180°F, then turn it off and place the bowl inside with the door slightly ajar.
• Variations:
  • Cinnamon Swirl: Add cinnamon sugar before rolling logs.
  • Raisin Bread: Mix in 2 cups of raisins during the dough stage.

Serving Suggestions

• Toasted with butter and jam
• Sandwiches or grilled cheese
• Served with soups or stews
• Turn into French toast or bread pudding

Storage/Reheating

• Store cooled bread in an airtight container for 2–3 days at room temp, or up to 5 days in the fridge.
• To freeze baked loaves: Wrap tightly in foil or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes! Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with dry ingredients. Rise times may be shorter.

Do I need a bread machine or mixer?
Nope. A bowl and spoon, plus your hands, are all you need!

Why is my bread dense?
Likely due to too much flour. Only add until dough is soft but slightly tacky.

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Freeze shaped loaves before the second rise. Thaw completely and let rise before baking.

Conclusion

This easy homemade bread recipe proves that baking bread doesn’t have to be intimidating. With pantry staples and a bit of patience, you’ll have two golden loaves with a soft, fluffy interior—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this is your go-to bread recipe.

More recipes you’ll love:

Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Oreo Cinnamon Rolls

Pineapple Coconut Cake

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