Homemade Loaf Bread Recipe

Soft & Fluffy Homemade Loaf Bread

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked homemade bread! This simple Loaf Bread Recipe creates a soft, fluffy, and golden-brown bread with a tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter and jam, this easy homemade bread is made with basic pantry ingredients.

Recipe Information

• Yield: 1 Loaf
• Prep Time: 20 Minutes
• Rise Time: 1½ Hours
• Bake Time: 30–35 Minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 Hours 30 Minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
• 2¼ tsp instant yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter or margarine
• 1¼ cups warm water or warm milk

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Flour
• Instant yeast
• Sugar
• Salt

Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add butter or margarine and gradually pour in the warm water or milk.

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and soft.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.

Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Gently press down the dough to remove excess air.

Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan and allow the dough to rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it rises above the edge of the pan.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove from the pan and cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Loaf Bread

• Use warm water or milk, not hot, to avoid damaging the yeast.
• Knead the dough well to develop a soft and fluffy texture.
• Allow enough rising time for the best volume and flavor.
• Brush the top with butter after baking for a softer crust.
• Let the bread cool before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

How to Serve Loaf Bread

Enjoy this homemade bread with:

• Butter and jam
• Eggs for breakfast
• Sandwich fillings
• Soup or pasta dishes
• Toast with your favorite toppings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Loaf Bread is soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can enjoy fresh bakery-style bread right from your own kitchen.