Simple White Bread

Have you ever daydreamed about mastering the art of baking homemade bread? The kind that’s crusty, chewy, and pairs perfectly with for example soups and sauces? Well, let me introduce you to this easy-to-make simple white bread recipe. A recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. This homemade crusty white bread is a delightful journey into the world of bread-making, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Even if you’ve never ventured into the realm of homemade bread or yeast before, fear not. This bread is your welcoming guide. It’s the perfect starting point because it’s incredibly forgiving, requiring just four simple ingredients. You do not need any special pans or mixers, though I do like to use my KitchenAid Stand Mixer 🙂 But the real magic in this recipe lies in the fact, that most of the recipe don’t require you to do anything!

But don’t be mistaken; seasoned bread bakers will also find joy in this recipe. It delivers a deliciously flavorful result, with a slightly crisp and unbelievably chewy crust.

So, let’s embark on this bread-making adventure together. With just four basic ingredients, no special equipment needed, and minimal effort, you’ll soon have a go-to white bread recipe that will grace your kitchen time and time again. Once you realize how straightforward it is to create authentic homemade bread, you’ll be baking loaves for any and every occasion.

Why you’ll fall in love with this bread recipe? Here are a few compelling reasons!

• It’s very easy to make.
• You only need four simple ingredients.
• The result is soft and bursting with flavor.
• The crust is chewy with a delightful hint of crispiness.
• You can shape it any way you desire.

The ingredients

Before we dive into the steps, let’s explore the four ingredients you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: If you want you can use bread flour instead. It produces a stronger, and chewier bread. But for this simple bread, I think the all-purpose flour is enough.
• Fresh yeast: I know a lot of bakers swear to instant yeast, but I like to use fresh yeast when I bake. I think it gives a bit of extra flavor. But both instant and dry yeast will work for this recipe as well.
• Salt: Good bread can’t exist without salt, and for the best flavor, go for coarse sea salt.
• Water: Don’t use hot or cold water. Room temperature works very well – between 70-75°F (21-24°C).

How to make your homemade white bread

1. Mix the ingredients. First, dissolve the yeast in the water, then add the rest of the ingredients. Mix everything (using a mixer or hands). The dough will be slightly sticky when thoroughly mixed.
2. Let it rise at room temperature for 1 1/2 hours, it will double in size. Use plastic wrap to cover the bowl as this will make sure the dough does not dry out.
3. Lay out a clean towel (I use a dishtowel) on your counter and spread out some flour in the middle. Scrape out the dough in the flour and shape it round. Now fold the towel around the dough and let it rise for another 45 min. While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 445°F (230°C).
4. Bake the bread for 35 min. Quality test; tap your bread. If it sounds hollow, it’s good! 🙂

Now, how should you savor your homemade white bread? The possibilities are endless:

• I love to eat it with just some olive oil and salt on top
• Or with garlic butter

But here is the thing – it’s your homemade bread, and you can eat it exactly how you want. So cut some nice slices, add your favorite thing on top, and enjoy this fantastic bread!