The art of baking a perfect loaf of white bread is one that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to explore the world of bread-making, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a warm, fresh loaf straight from the oven and serving it up with your favorite meal.
But what makes a great white bread recipe? Is it the tender crumb, the crispy crust, or the subtle flavor that complements any topping? The answer is simple: it’s all about finding the right balance. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different white bread recipes that will take your baking skills to the next level and provide you with a world of possibilities for experimenting and creating new flavors.
From classic homemade white bread to artisanal brioche-style loaves, each recipe has been carefully crafted to bring out the best in every loaf. So whether you’re looking for a simple sandwich bread or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Classic Homemade White Bread
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting from your oven! This classic recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Proof the yeast by adding the warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour total, including rising time.
Soft and Buttery White Sandwich Bread
Soft and Buttery White Sandwich Bread Recipe
In this recipe, we’ll create a classic white sandwich bread that’s soft, buttery, and perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite fillings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh-baked goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and continue mixing until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and silky.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangular loaf.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy No-Knead White Bread
Easy No-Knead White Bread Recipe: Freshly baked white bread with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt (and sugar if using) to the bowl. Mix until just combined, forming a shaggy dough.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Dust a baking sheet or Dutch oven with cornmeal.
5. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tips:
– Use a Dutch oven or ceramic pot with a lid to achieve a crispy crust.
– For an even crisper crust, preheat the baking sheet in the oven for 10 minutes before adding the dough.
Dutch Oven Crusty White Bread
Experience the joy of homemade bread with this simple recipe that yields a crusty loaf with a soft interior, all cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in the preheated Dutch oven for 30-40 minutes or until doubled in size.
6. Remove the dough from the bowl, shape into a round or oblong loaf, and place in the preheated Dutch oven.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Honey Wheat White Bread Blend
This sweet and wholesome bread blend combines the natural sweetness of honey with the nutty flavor of whole wheat, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy white bread. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the honey, warm water, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic and Herb Infused White Bread
Fresh from the oven, this soft and aromatic bread is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews. With a hint of garlic and herbs, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, garlic, and herbs. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough on prepared baking sheet, shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Baguette-Style White Bread
This recipe yields a crusty, chewy baguette-style bread with a subtle sweetness and a tender crumb. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar to the mixture and stir gently.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin baguette. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Milk White Bread for Extra Softness
This classic white bread recipe yields a soft and fluffy loaf with a tender crumb, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking. With a simple process and minimal ingredients, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk (at room temperature)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add milk, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan White Bread with Olive Oil
This recipe yields a soft and fluffy vegan white bread infused with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply snacking on its own!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add in the olive oil and continue to mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tangy Sourdough White Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously tangy sourdough white bread with a tender crumb and a slightly chewy crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F)
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose white flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sourdough starter. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the starter to activate.
2. Add 2 cups of flour, salt, and sugar to the mixture. Mix until just combined, using a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
3. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise at room temperature (around 70°F) for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rosemary and Sea Salt White Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously fragrant and flavorful white bread infused with the subtle pine notes of rosemary and the savory taste of sea salt. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add sugar, warm water, and olive oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped rosemary.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
5. Form into a round loaf shape, place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle sea salt over the bread.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Cinnamon Swirl White Bread
Sweet Cinnamon Swirl White Bread Recipe
Start your day off right with a warm slice of sweet cinnamon swirl white bread, infused with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape. Sprinkle melted butter and cinnamon evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides. Cut off any excess dough.
8. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Pull-Apart White Bread
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible cheesy pull-apart white bread! Soft, fluffy, and utterly addictive, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of white bread (12-14 inches)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, cheddar, mozzarella, and garlic powder until smooth.
4. Place each bread piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each bread piece.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Artisan White Bread with Crispy Crust
This recipe yields a soft, airy interior and a crispy crust, perfect for sandwiches or served on its own. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space around the edges.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick White Bread Rolls
Elevate your sandwich game with these soft, fluffy, and deliciously fresh white bread rolls, ready in just under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brioche-Style White Bread
Elevate your bread game with this rich and buttery brioche-style white bread recipe, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Glazed Lemon White Bread
Brighten up your breakfast or snack time with this sweet and tangy glazed lemon white bread recipe! Moist, fluffy bread infused with the brightness of lemon zest and topped with a sticky glaze is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While still warm, drizzle with lemon glaze (made by whisking together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon melted butter).
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Knot White Bread
Savor the classic combination of buttery white bread and savory garlic in this simple yet flavorful recipe. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, salads, or sandwiches!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring to form a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into knots.
6. Brush garlic butter mixture (melted butter + minced garlic) onto the knots.
7. Place knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato White Bread
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful bread infused with the savory taste of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for snacking or serving as a side to your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes; knead for another minute to distribute evenly.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Oat White Bread
This recipe combines the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of maple syrup to create a delicious and aromatic white bread. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by stirring in the warm water. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Stir in the maple syrup.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the softness and versatility of white bread with these 20 delicious recipes. From classic homemade loaves to artisanal crusts, and even vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for every baker. Discover how to make fluffy, buttery sandwich bread, crispy baguettes, cheesy pull-aparts, and more. With a range of flavors and textures, you’ll never get bored with this staple ingredient. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes will guide you in achieving perfect, mouthwatering results.
Leave a Reply