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Classic Homemade White Bread Loaf

Close-up of a freshly baked loaf of Homemade Bread, showing a fluffy, white interior crumb and golden-brown crust.
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A straightforward recipe for baking a soft, fluffy white bread loaf from scratch, suitable for beginner home bakers.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, yeast, and sugar.
  2. Add the warm water and softened butter to the dry ingredients.
  3. Mix by hand or with a dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, knead for 6 to 8 minutes.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours (first proof).
  7. Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
  8. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  9. Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again until it has nearly doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes (second proof).
  10. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second proof.
  11. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  12. Remove the bread from the pan immediately and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
  • If your kitchen is cold, place the covered dough bowl inside your oven with just the light turned on to create a warm proofing spot.
  • If the dough tears while kneading, let it rest for 5 minutes before continuing; this allows the gluten to relax.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/homemade-bread-classic-white-loaf-recipe/