If you’re looking for a soft, fluffy, bakery-style sandwich bread that’s perfect for toast, sandwiches, and breakfast, this homemade white bread recipe is exactly what you need. With a golden crust and an incredibly light, pillowy interior, these loaves stay soft for days and are easy enough for beginners to make.
Whether you’re baking for your family or simply love the smell of fresh bread filling your kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
- Soft and fluffy texture
- Perfect for sandwiches and toast
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Freezes beautifully
- Better than store-bought bread
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 2 hours
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: About 3 hours
- Servings: 2 loaves
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 6½ cups bread flour
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups warm milk
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
For Brushing
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Kitchen Equipment
- Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the egg and softened butter. Mix well.
Gradually add the bread flour and salt while stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, soft, and elastic.
If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 8 minutes.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl.
Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
Let rise for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough.
Divide into two equal pieces.
Flatten each piece into a rectangle and tightly roll into a loaf.
Pinch the seams closed.
Place into greased loaf pans.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover loosely.
Allow the dough to rise again for 40–50 minutes until it rises about 1 inch above the rim of the loaf pans.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.
The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
Step 8: Butter the Tops
Remove from the oven.
Brush the tops generously with melted butter.
Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pans.
Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
- Use bread flour for the softest texture.
- Warm liquids should be around 100–110°F.
- Avoid adding too much flour; the dough should be soft.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Store in an airtight bag to keep it fresh longer.
Storage
Room Temperature: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Refrigerator: Up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
- Toast with butter and jam
- Peanut butter sandwiches
- French toast
- Grilled cheese
- Garlic bread
- Breakfast toast with eggs
- Club sandwiches
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, but bread flour creates a softer and fluffier loaf.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
The yeast may have expired, or the liquid may have been too hot or too cold.
Can I make one loaf?
Yes. Simply halve all of the ingredients.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition (Per Slice)
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
Final Thoughts
Nothing compares to the aroma and taste of freshly baked homemade sandwich bread. This recipe produces two beautifully golden loaves with a soft, fluffy crumb that’s perfect for everything from breakfast toast to hearty sandwiches. Once you try this bakery-style bread, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again because it’s simple, delicious, and made with everyday ingredients.
