American Bread — soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathered in butter.
🍞 Classic American Bread
🧂 Ingredients:
1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
1 ½ tsp salt
2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
👩🍳 Instructions:
Activate the yeast:
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add remaining ingredients:
Stir in oil, salt, and 2 ¾ cups of flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, if dough is too sticky.
Knead:
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
First rise:
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled — about 1 hour.
Shape & second rise:
Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5″ loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
🍯 Optional Additions:
Brush with melted butter after baking for a soft, glossy crust.
Add 1–2 tbsp honey for a slightly sweet version.