This easy white bread recipe produces a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter!

Ingredients:

4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour or bread flour

1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast

2 tablespoons (30g) sugar

1 ½ teaspoons salt

2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. (Skip this step if using instant yeast.)

2. Mix the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-6 minutes.)

4. First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Loaf:

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second Rise:

Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Bake:

Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool & Enjoy:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for the Best Bread:

Use bread flour for a chewier texture.

If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Brushing the top with melted butter after baking makes the crust softer.