Country White Bread is a classic, timeless recipe that brings the warmth and comfort of homemade bread to your kitchen. With a soft and tender crumb, a golden crust, and a slightly chewy texture, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter. The simplicity of this recipe makes it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. Its straightforward ingredients—flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and butter—come together to create a loaf that is both wholesome and delicious. The slow rise allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a bread that’s wonderfully aromatic and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and the softened butter. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes, until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy the fresh, homemade goodness of this Country White Bread, perfect for any meal or as a tasty snack on its own!
