Soft and fluffy homemade white bread made in a bread machine. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, and everyday meals with simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Ingredients

For a Small Loaf (1 lb)

¾ cup (180 ml) water, 110°F (45°C)
2 Tbsp (30 ml) oil
1 tsp (6 g) salt
1 Tbsp (12 g) granulated sugar or honey
2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp (3 g) instant yeast

For a Medium Loaf (1½ lb)

1 cup (240 ml) water, 110°F (45°C)
2 ½ Tbsp (37.5 ml) oil
1 ¼ tsp (7.5 g) salt
1 ½ Tbsp (18 g) granulated sugar or honey
3 ½ cups (420 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp (4.5 g) instant yeast

For a Large Loaf (2 lb)

1 ⅓ cups (310 ml) water, 110°F (45°C)
3 Tbsp (45 ml) oil
1 ½ tsp (9 g) salt
2 Tbsp (24 g) granulated sugar or honey
4 ½ cups (540 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp (6 g) instant yeast

Instructions

Add ingredients to the bread machine:
Pour water, oil, salt, sugar (or honey), flour, and yeast into the bread pan in that order.
Set up the machine:
Place the pan into the bread machine, ensuring it is secured. Close the lid.
Select settings:
Choose the basic bread program, the loaf size, and the preferred crust color (light, medium, or dark). The machine will knead, proof, and bake the dough automatically.
Remove and cool:
When the cycle ends, unplug the machine. Using oven mitts, carefully remove the pan. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. If the kneading paddle is stuck in the bottom, remove it gently.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft, fluffy, and golden white bread with minimal effort.
Simple ingredients and easy to make in any bread machine.
Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or homemade garlic bread.
Adjustable loaf sizes and crust preferences to suit your needs.

Tips

Use room-temperature water for optimal yeast activation.
Ensure yeast does not touch the salt directly, as it may reduce its effectiveness.
For a more even bake, level the flour in the pan before starting.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain structure.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweeteners: Substitute sugar with maple syrup, agave, or honey.
Flour: Use bread flour for a chewier texture or a mix with whole wheat for a healthier loaf.
Add-ins: Include herbs, garlic, or shredded cheese for flavored bread.
Oil substitutes: Replace vegetable oil with melted butter or olive oil for a different taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I double this recipe in a larger bread machine?
Yes, adjust the ingredient quantities based on the machine’s maximum capacity.

Q: How long will the bread stay fresh?
Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Q: Can I make this bread without a bread machine?
Yes, you can knead and bake it in a conventional oven using standard yeast bread techniques.

Serving Suggestions

Slice for sandwiches or toast.
Use for French toast or bread pudding.
Serve with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast.
Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.