Classic Homemade White Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Homemade White Bread.

1. Step 1

   In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together 1 1/4 cups of sifted flour, warm water, shortening, sugar, salt, and yeast.

2. Step 2

   You can either mix by hand for 300 strokes or let an electric mixer do the work for about 3 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Gradually incorporate the remaining 1 3/4 cups of sifted flour, making sure to scrape the sides of the bowl frequently until the dough achieves a smooth consistency.

4. Step 4

   Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take around 1 hour.

5. Step 5

   Prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it.

6. Step 6

   Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down—expect it to be a bit sticky—and transfer it into the greased loaf pan.

7. Step 7

   Shape it with floured hands and pat it down gently.

8. Step 8

   Cover the pan and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

10. Step 10

    When the dough has completed its second rise, uncover it and place it in the preheated oven.

11. Step 11

    Bake until the top is a beautiful golden brown, which should take approximately 45 minutes.

12. Step 12

    After baking, remove the bread from the oven and set it on a cooling rack.

13. Step 13

    For a delightful finish, brush the top with melted butter and let it cool completely.

14. Step 14

    Enjoy the warm, homemade aroma that fills your kitchen as you savor each slice of this delicious bread.