Why Make This Recipe
Making your own bread at home is rewarding. Not only do you get the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen, but you also have control over the ingredients. This white bread dough is easy to make, and it will give you a delicious, soft loaf that is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply eating with butter.
How to Make White Bread Dough
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. Once it forms a dough, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
- Grease a loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the top of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
How to Serve White Bread Dough
You can enjoy this white bread fresh out of the oven with a smear of butter. It also makes for excellent sandwiches, toasted with jam, or served as a side with soups and salads.
How to Store White Bread Dough
To store the bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Tips to Make White Bread Dough
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Knead the dough well. This helps develop the gluten, giving your bread structure.
- If it’s a cool day, you can create a warm environment for rising by placing the dough in an oven with the light on.
- For extra flavor, add herbs or garlic powder into the dough.
Variation
For a slightly sweet touch, try adding a tablespoon of honey in place of the sugar. You can also add seeds, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but you may need to add a bit more water to achieve the right consistency.
2. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure the yeast is not expired and that the water temperature is warm enough. It can be helpful to place the dough in a warm place.
3. Can I use bread maker for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread maker. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients and choose the appropriate setting.

Homemade White Bread Dough
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and rewarding recipe for homemade white bread dough, perfect for sandwiches and toast.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. Once it forms a dough, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
- Grease a loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the top of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to keep the yeast active. Knead well for structure.
