The Easiest Way To Make White Bread In The Oven: Your Family Will Love It!

Baking white bread at home is a rewarding skill that yields a delicious and versatile staple. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice venturing into the world of bread-making, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to create perfect white bread in the oven.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

To begin your bread-making journey, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F or 40-46°C)

Activating the Yeast

The first step is to activate the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy and bubbly.

Mixing the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the flour into the yeast mixture, forming a sticky dough.

Kneading the Dough

Kneading develops the gluten in the dough, giving it a chewy texture. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Proofing the Dough: The First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Punching Down and Shaping the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Proofing the Dough: The Second Rise

Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let them rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.

Scoring the Loaves

Before baking, score the tops of the loaves with a sharp knife. This will allow the bread to expand during baking and create a beautiful crust.

Baking the Bread

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Cooling and Storing the Bread

Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect White Bread:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure your ingredients accurately to ensure a balanced dough.
• Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten and create a chewy texture.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm place to promote yeast activity.
• Don’t overproof the dough, as this can result in a dense loaf.
• Score the loaves before baking to allow for expansion and create a beautiful crust.
• Bake the bread until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• My bread is too dense: You may have not kneaded the dough enough or allowed it to rise for too long.
• My bread is too dry: You may have not added enough water to the dough or baked it for too long.
• My bread is too crumbly: You may have used too much flour or not kneaded the dough enough.
• My bread has a sour taste: You may have used too much yeast or allowed the dough to rise for too long.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. The ratio is 1 teaspoon (2.25g) instant yeast to 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast.

2. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will result in a chewier loaf of bread.

3. How long can I store homemade white bread?
Homemade white bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze homemade white bread?
Yes, you can freeze homemade white bread for up to 2 months. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.

5. How can I make my bread crusty?
To make your bread crusty, preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible and bake the bread on a preheated baking stone or sheet.

6. How can I make my bread soft?
To make your bread soft, add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the dough before kneading.