Bread Machine White Bread
Summary
This Bread Machine White Bread makes a soft, fluffy 1½-pound loaf that's perfect for sandwiches, toast, and everyday meals. Optional vital wheat gluten gives the bread an especially springy, chewy texture, while the bread machine handles the mixing, kneading, rising, and baking.
Bread Machine White Bread
Why You'll Love This Bread Machine White Bread
Soft and fluffy. This classic white bread has the tender texture you want for sandwiches and toast. Easy to make. The bread machine handles the mixing, kneading, rising, and baking. Perfect for sandwiches. Slice it for sandwiches, grilled cheese, toast, or French toast. Simple ingredients. You can make a homemade loaf with basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Beginner friendly. If you're new to using a bread machine, this is a great recipe to start with.Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Follow your bread machine manufacturer's instructions for the recommended order of ingredients. In our KBS bread machine, we add the ingredients in the order listed above, beginning with the wet ingredients and then adding the dry ingredients.
- Place the bread pan into the machine and lock it securely into place.
- Select the Soft Bread setting, 1½-pound loaf, and Medium Crust. On our KBS bread machine, the cycle runs for approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes.
- When the cycle is complete, carefully remove the loaf from the bread pan and transfer it to a cooling rack.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
Video
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!What Does Vital Wheat Gluten Do in Bread?
Vital wheat gluten is the concentrated protein found naturally in wheat. Adding a small amount to bread dough can strengthen the gluten structure, helping the loaf develop a springier, chewier texture.
For this Bread Machine White Bread, Dr. J likes adding two tablespoons because of the texture it creates. However, it is completely optional. If you don’t have vital wheat gluten, simply leave it out and follow the rest of the recipe as written.
Which Bread Machine Cycle Should I Use?
On our KBS bread machine, we use the Soft Bread setting, select a 1½-pound loaf, and choose a medium crust. The complete cycle takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes.
Bread machines vary, so always check your manufacturer’s instructions to determine the closest equivalent setting on your machine.
Tips for the Best Bread Machine White Bread
Use warm water. Aim for approximately 95–105°F. The water should feel pleasantly warm to the touch rather than hot.
Measure your flour carefully. Too much flour can create a dense loaf. If you’re measuring by volume, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it rather than packing it down.
Follow your machine’s ingredient order. Our KBS bread machine calls for wet ingredients first, followed by the dry ingredients. Other machines may recommend a different order.
Let the loaf cool before slicing. Fresh bread continues setting as it cools. Cutting into it too early can compress the crumb and make the loaf seem gummy.
How to Serve Bread Machine White Bread
This is an everyday loaf that works with just about anything. Its soft texture makes it especially good for:
- Sandwiches
- Grilled cheese
- Toast with butter or jam
- French toast
- Garlic toast
- Serving alongside soups and stews
Storage and Freezing
Allow the loaf to cool completely before storing it. Keep it in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for several days.
For longer storage, slice the cooled loaf and freeze the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Individual slices can be removed as needed and thawed at room temperature or toasted directly from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use vital wheat gluten?
No. Vital wheat gluten is optional. Dr. J prefers the springy, chewy texture it gives the bread, but the recipe will still produce a delicious loaf without it.
Do I need bread flour for this recipe?
No. This recipe uses all-purpose flour, with optional vital wheat gluten for extra structure and chew.
Why should the water be 95–105°F?
Warm water helps activate the yeast and encourages a good rise. Water that is too hot can damage the yeast, while very cold water can slow down fermentation.
Why should I let bread cool before slicing it?
The inside of the loaf is still setting when it first comes out of the bread machine. Allowing it to cool completely helps preserve the crumb structure and makes the bread easier to slice cleanly.
Can I freeze Bread Machine White Bread?
Yes. Let the loaf cool completely, slice it, and store the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Pre-slicing makes it easy to take out only what you need.
Watch Dr. J Make Bread Machine White Bread
See exactly how Dr. J makes this soft, everyday white bread in the KBS bread machine, including the optional ingredient she uses for an especially springy, chewy texture.
