Country’s White Bread is a soft, fluffy, and delicious homemade bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter. This simple and easy-to-follow recipe uses basic ingredients to create a traditional loaf that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re new to bread-making or an experienced baker, this recipe will guide you through making the perfect loaf of white bread.
Ingredients
- 1 packet of dry active yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F – 115°F)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp oil (vegetable, canola, or melted butter)
- 3–4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the packet of dry active yeast in the warm water. Make sure the water is between 110°F and 115°F to properly activate the yeast.
- Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the water and yeast mixture, stirring gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Add the egg, remaining sugar, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Continue adding flour until the dough starts to come together and pull away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
Step 4: First Rise
- Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or non-stick spray.
- Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat all sides with the oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough to release the air and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle, folding the sides in, and rolling it up tightly from one short end to the other.
- Place the shaped loaf seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
- Once the bread is completely cool, slice it with a serrated knife.
- Serve the bread fresh with butter, jam, or use it for sandwiches and toast.
Cook’s Notes
- Flour: The amount of flour needed can vary based on humidity and other factors. Add flour gradually to ensure the dough is soft but not overly sticky.
- Egg Substitute: If you prefer an eggless bread, you can omit the egg and add an extra tablespoon of oil or melted butter for moisture.
- Yeast Activation: Make sure the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. The temperature should be warm to the touch.
Variations
Honey White Bread
Replace the sugar with ¼ cup of honey for a slightly sweeter, honey-flavored loaf.
Herbed White Bread
Mix in 1 tablespoon of dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a flavorful herbed bread.
Garlic White Bread
Add 2 teaspoons of garlic powder to the flour mixture for a subtle garlic flavor throughout the loaf.
Whole Wheat Blend
For a slightly healthier loaf, substitute 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a bit more water or oil to achieve the right dough consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply mix it with the dry ingredients and add the warm water directly to the mixture. You don’t need to activate instant yeast in water first.
2. How do I store leftover bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container or a bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves. Be sure to use two loaf pans and allow extra time for the dough to rise if necessary.
4. Why didn’t my bread rise?
If your bread didn’t rise, it could be due to old or inactive yeast, water that was too hot or too cold, or letting the dough rise in a cool or drafty area. Make sure to use fresh yeast and provide a warm environment for the dough to rise.
5. Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can make this bread in a bread machine. Add the ingredients to the machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer and use the basic bread cycle.
Country’s White Bread is a versatile and delicious homemade loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven with butter or use it to make sandwiches and toast, this bread is sure to delight with its soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is a great way to bring the comforting taste of homemade bread into your kitchen. Enjoy baking and savoring every slice of this classic white bread!
