Whip up a delightfully simple loaf with our White Flour Bread recipe. With just a handful of basic ingredients, this recipe yields a soft, delicious loaf perfect for everything from hearty morning toast to a companion for your evening meal. The process is straightforward, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and those looking to quickly bake up a storm without fuss.
Ingredients:
- Less than 4 cups of white flour (about 410 g)
- 1.5 cups water (about 300 ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt (about 6 g)
- 160 g butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the white flour and salt. - Add Water:
Gradually add water to the flour mixture while stirring continuously. Adjust the amount of water as needed to form a soft dough. The exact quantity may vary slightly depending on the humidity and type of flour used. - Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. - Shape and Prepare for Baking:
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking pan. Brush the top of the loaf generously with the melted butter. Make a few shallow slashes on the surface of the dough with a sharp knife to allow for expansion during baking. - Bake:
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Bread:
- Flour Consistency: Use fresh, high-quality white flour for the best results.
- Butter Flavor: Brushing with butter enhances the flavor and adds a golden crust.
- Adjust Water: Add water gradually, as the dough consistency can vary with different flour types.
Nutritional Benefits:
- White Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Butter: Adds a rich flavor and helps create a tender crumb.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy days or beginner bakers.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side with meals.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade bread with this easy and delightful White Flour Bread recipe. With its soft texture and golden crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for White Flour Bread Recipe:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour, but the bread will have a denser texture and a slightly different flavor. You might need to add a little more water since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. - What type of butter should I use?
Unsalted butter is typically recommended, but you can use salted butter if you prefer a slightly saltier taste. Adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly. - Can I add herbs or other flavors to the bread?
Absolutely! You can add dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme), garlic powder, or grated cheese to the dough for added flavor. Mix them in with the dry ingredients before adding water. - How do I store the bread to keep it fresh?
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to use. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make the bread vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil. - What if my bread turns out dense?
A dense loaf may result from not kneading the dough enough, using too much flour, or overbaking. Make sure the dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, and check the bread’s doneness by tapping the bottom – it should sound hollow. - How can I make the crust crispier?
For a crispier crust, bake the bread at a slightly higher temperature (200°C or 400°F) for the last 5-10 minutes. You can also place a small oven-safe dish of water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps achieve a crispy crust. - Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread machine. Follow the machine’s instructions for adding ingredients and use the basic white bread setting. - What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, gradually add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. - How do I know if my dough is kneaded enough?
The dough is kneaded enough when it feels smooth and elastic. You can perform the “windowpane test” by stretching a small piece of dough between your fingers – if it stretches without tearing and forms a translucent “window,” it’s ready.