Fluffy Homemade White Bread Loaves
Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
6 to 6 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Directions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir lightly and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough:
Add salt and oil to the yeast mixture, then gradually mix in the flour one cup at a time. Once the dough comes together, knead it for 8–10 minutes by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Loaves:
Punch down the dough to release air, divide it in half, and shape each portion into a loaf. Place into two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Second Rise:
Cover the pans and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until it’s about an inch above the rim.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve:
Remove from pans and let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy plain, with butter, or as your favorite sandwich base.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Yields: 2 loaves
