Dinner

How to Make the Best White Bread from Scratch Recipe

Byanna orden January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen! Making white bread from scratch is easier than you might think. This recipe will guide you through creating soft, fluffy homemade bread perfect for sandwiches and toast.

Two freshly baked loaves of bread sit in dark metal loaf pans, each loaf showing a golden-brown crust dusted with light white flour. The bread has a smooth, slightly domed top with a soft texture and a warm, inviting color. The pans rest on a white marbled surface. In the background, a white ceramic butter dish with floral and red lettering sits near a wooden bread box, adding a cozy kitchen feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups warm water
1/4 cup sugar
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp dry yeast (ensure it’s fresh for best results)
2 tsp salt
3 tbsp softened butter

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves, then sprinkle yeast over the surface. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix flour, salt, and softened butter. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until crumbly. Add the yeast mixture and stir until dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough in the bowl for 8–10 minutes until soft and slightly sticky. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, dark place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. On a floured surface, divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf. Place loaves in greased loaf pans.
Step 6: Let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes until about 1 inch above the pan edges.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake loaves for 25 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 8: Remove from pans and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh yeast and check the expiration date for reliable rising.
Ensure water is warm but not hot to activate yeast without killing it.
Avoid adding too much flour when kneading to keep bread soft.
For a healthier twist, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic herb bread.
Try rolling the dough with cinnamon and sugar before shaping for a sweet cinnamon swirl.
Mix in minced garlic and olive oil for a savory garlic bread perfect with pasta.

Storage

Store bread at room temperature in an airtight container or bread bag for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

How to Serve

Two fresh golden brown loaves of bread sit in gray baking pans on a white marbled counter. Each loaf has a lightly floured top with a soft crust and a slightly puffy texture. One loaf is closer to the camera, showing its smooth, warm, golden surface, while the second loaf is positioned behind it, slightly out of focus. The background includes a vintage butter dish with red and orange floral details and a dark pepper grinder. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What if my yeast doesn’t foam?

If your yeast doesn’t become frothy after 5–10 minutes in warm water and sugar, it may be expired or the water temperature was incorrect. It’s best to start again with fresh yeast to ensure the bread rises properly.

Can I use rapid rise yeast instead?

Yes, rapid rise yeast can be used and will shorten rising times. The first rise should take about 35 minutes instead of 1–2 hours, but otherwise follow the recipe as usual.