👩🍳 Instructions:
🌟 Step 1: Activate the Yeast
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In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 package of active dry yeast.
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Add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and stir gently.
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Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it begins to bubble and foam. 🫧
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💡 Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired—try again with a fresh packet.
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🍞 Step 2: Mix the Dough
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Add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture.
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Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough comes together.
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Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted butter and continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky.
💪 Step 3: Kneading the Dough
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Lightly flour your countertop and transfer the dough onto it.
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Knead the dough by folding it over itself and pressing it down with the palms of your hands.
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Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth.
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💡 Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour—one tablespoon at a time.
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⏳ Step 4: First Rising (Resting)
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Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
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Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
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🌡️ Pro Tip: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, then turn it off to create a cozy environment for the dough to rise.
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🥖 Step 5: Shape the Dough
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Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles.
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Transfer it back to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf by rolling it out into a rectangle and folding the edges toward the center.
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Tuck in the ends and place the dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
🚀 Step 6: Second Rising (Proofing)
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Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
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Let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes until it rises slightly above the pan’s edge.
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🍃 Patience Pays Off: This second rise ensures your bread will be soft and fluffy.
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🔥 Step 7: Baking the Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Once the dough has finished rising, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.
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The bread is done when the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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🌡️ Tip: Check the internal temperature—it should read 190°F (88°C) for perfect doneness.
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❄️ Step 8: Cool the Bread
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Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
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Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
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🔪 Pro Tip: Letting it cool ensures the texture sets properly, giving you those perfect slices!
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💫 Why Make Homemade Bread?
This Easy Homemade White Bread is the epitome of comfort food, bringing the warmth and satisfaction of fresh baking right into your home. 🌟 The soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor make it ideal for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this foolproof recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
🌼 A Slice of Simple Joy
Enjoy your freshly baked bread with a generous pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a smear of your favorite jam. 🧈🍯 There’s something truly special about making your own bread from scratch—a labor of love that tastes every bit as good as it smells. 💕
So go ahead—roll up your sleeves and get baking. Your perfect homemade loaf is just a few simple steps away! 🍞✨