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Classic white bread made in a bread machine

Classic Bread Machine White Bread

This easy bread machine white bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for beginners, sandwiches, toast, or everyday homemade bread.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1¼ cups warm water 110°F / 43°C
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 3½ cups bread flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast 1 packet

Method
 

  1. Add the warm water, butter, sugar, and salt to the bread machine pan.
  2. Add the bread flour, making sure it completely covers the liquid.
  3. Make a small well in the center of the flour and add the instant yeast, keeping it away from the liquid.
  4. Insert the pan into the bread machine and select the Basic or White Bread cycle with your preferred crust setting.
  5. After about 10 minutes of kneading, check the dough. It should form a smooth, slightly tacky ball. If it's too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time. If it's too sticky, add 1 teaspoon of bread flour at a time.
  6. Allow the bread machine to complete the full cycle.
  7. Remove the loaf from the pan immediately after baking and cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

  • Bread flour produces the best rise and texture because of its higher protein content.
  • Measure ingredients accurately for consistent results.
  • Check the dough during the first kneading cycle and adjust with small amounts of flour or water if needed.
  • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
  • Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.