The “OMG Did I Just Bake This?!” White Bread

Okay, but seriously… have you ever made bread from scratch? Like, I used to think it was this magical, unattainable thing that only bakers on TV did. But then I tried this white bread recipe, and it was like the universe opened up and said, “Welcome to the club!” 😂

Main dish photo — *The finished dish — looks amazing, right?*

Okay, Let’s Talk Ingredients

So, let’s hit the grocery store, right? You’ll need:

– 2 cups of warm water (not too hot or your yeast’ll freak out)
– 1/4 cup sugar (sweeten the deal!)
– 5 cups of flour (all-purpose is your bestie)
– 2 tsp yeast (go for active dry)
– 2 tsp salt (don’t skip this, it’s crucial)
– 3 tbsp softened butter (mmm, buttery goodness)

Just grab those and you’re already halfway to a bread party! 🎉

So Here’s Why I Make This Constantly

Okay, story time! The first time I made this was during a snowstorm—like, we were snowed in and all I had was some flour and a dream. 😂 I was feeling all “Little House on the Prairie,” so I thought, why not? I whipped this up, and when it came out of the oven, the smell was heavenly! My family came running from their rooms like I’d summoned a pizza. We slathered it with butter and jam and—OMG—it was like heaven on a slice.

Now, whenever there’s a snowstorm or just a cozy day, this recipe is my go-to. It’s like a warm hug from the inside. You know?

Another beautiful angle of the dish — *Just as gorgeous from this angle too!*

(Another beautiful shot because we can’t get enough!)

Here’s another angle of my masterpiece—seriously, this bread is just too photogenic!

The One Trick That Changes Everything

Okay, listen up! The key here is the kneading. Like, don’t freak out if it’s sticky—this is a good thing! Your hands are your best tools. Just keep at it for 8-10 minutes (or 5-7 if you’re fancy and using a stand mixer). Trust me, this extra love is what makes the bread soft and fluffy.

Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)

– Don’t skip the first rise! Seriously, let that dough puff up like it’s been at a spa day. It’s hard to wait, I know, but it’s worth it.
– Cover it well! Use a towel or plastic wrap—keeping the warmth in is key, like cuddling a baby (or a cat).
– Use a little butter in the loaf pans. It gives that extra golden crust!

How to Keep Them From Disappearing (Or, How to Store Them)

So, if you’re like me, the bread’s probably going to disappear in a matter of hours. But if you need to store it (good luck), let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. Or, honestly, just leave it on the counter and watch it vanish.

If You Liked This, You’ll Probably Like These Too

Got more time on your hands? You’ll love making:

– Garlic Bread (because carbs with garlic = life)
– Banana Bread (perfect for when you have overripe bananas, ya know?)
– Homemade Pizza (because what’s better than warm bread with toppings?)

So, tell me, have you ever tried making bread? What’s your favorite part of baking? Can’t wait to hear your stories! 🍞💖

The Best White Bread from Scratch

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Discover the joy of baking with this easy, homemade white bread recipe! Perfect for beginners, this soft and fluffy bread is ideal for sandwiches or toast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful loaf that fills your kitchen with warmth and aroma. Savor the taste of freshly baked bread that’s perfect for spreading butter or jam.

Author: XXXXX
Prep Time: 180 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 32 slices (2 loaves) 1x
Category: Baked Goods
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups warm water
1/4 cup sugar
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
2 tsp salt
3 tbsp softened butter

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Instructions

Combine warm water and sugar in a measuring cup; stir until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and softened butter until crumbly. Add yeast mixture and stir to form a dough.
Knead dough in the bowl for 8-10 minutes or use a stand mixer on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until sticky (avoid adding extra flour).
Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size (35 minutes for rapid rise yeast).
Punch down the dough, divide into two equal parts, shape into loaves, and place in greased pans.
Let rise again for 30-45 minutes until dough rises above pan edges.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake loaves for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool on wire racks for at least 30 minutes before slicing.