Grandma's Country White Bread: Soft Homemade Loaf
A classic, soft, and fluffy homemade white bread recipe passed down through generations, featuring a golden crust and tender crumb perfect for sandwiches or toasting.
- Author: info.mealsmell
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approx. 12 slices) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 and 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 and 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours (until doubled in size).
- Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
- Optional: Brush with melted butter for a soft crust. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- Ensure the water is between 105°F and 115°F; too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won't activate it.
- For a shinier crust, you can use an egg wash instead of butter.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1160mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Grandma's Country White Bread, Homemade Bread, Soft White Loaf, Yeast Bread Recipe