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5 from 2 votes

Best White Bread Recipe for Bread Machine - 2lbs

This simple white bread recipe for bread machine produces a soft and fluffy 2 lb loaf, perfect for sandwiches, toast or just as such.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings 12 slices
Calories 210kcal
Author Sushma Iyer

Ingredients

  • 312 gms (1+1/4 cups) Lukewarm Milk refer notes
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 3 tbsp Sugar
  • 56 gms (1/4 cup) Melted Butter
  • 480 gms (4 cups) All Purpose Flour
  • 1.5 tsp Instant Yeast

Instructions

Step 1 - Preparation

  • Attach the paddle (dough hook/kneading blade) to the pan of the bread machine. 

Step 2 - Ingredient Assembly

  • Pour 1 1/4 cups of lukewarm milk (or lukewarm water if using) into the baking pan followed by salt, sugar, melted butter, flour and instant yeast. 
    If you using powdered milk add it before the melted butter. 

Step 3 - Bread Machine Settings

  • Place the bread pan into the bread machine and close the lid.
    Weight: 2 lbs (1000 gms)
    Color: Medium
    Option: Basic Bread (usually the first option in the menu)
    Press Start and allow the machine to complete the bread cycle.

Step 4 - Baking

  • About 3-5 minutes into the kneading stage, open the lid of your bread machine to evaluate the dough.
    It should be a smooth, cohesive ball that feels slightly moist to the touch (tacky to the touch).
    If the dough seems too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a small amount of water.

Step 5 - Cool the Bread

  • When the bread machine has finished its cycle, carefully remove the bread pan using oven mitts or pot holders.
  • Gently take the bread out of the pan by inverting it on to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
  • Slice and enjoy your soft, fluffy loaf of bread!

Notes

Ingredient Notes:
  • Milk - You can substitute water for milk, but consider adding 2 tablespoons of powdered milk (also known as dry milk or milk powder) to keep the bread soft. Whether using milk or water, ensure the liquid is lukewarm to help activate the yeast.
  • Melted Butter - Can also be substituted with any flavorless or odorless oil like vegetable oil, olive oil or even canola oil. Butter gives a superior taste though as compared to oil.
  • All-Purpose Flour - You can also use bread flour for a sturdier loaf.
  • Instant Yeast - Stick to instant yeast or bread machine yeast for best results.
Best Tips:
  1. Always use lukewarm milk or water (about 110°F or 45°C) to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot or too cold liquids can affect the yeast’s performance.
  2. Add liquids first, followed by dry ingredients, and place the yeast on top of the flour. This prevents the yeast from coming into contact with the liquid until kneading begins.
  3. About 3-5 minutes into the kneading cycle, open the lid to check the dough’s texture. It should form a smooth, cohesive ball. If the dough is too dry, sprinkle in a bit more water; if it's too sticky, add a small amount of flour to achieve the right consistency.
  4. Each bread machine model might have specific guidelines, such as making a well in the flour for the yeast. Always consult your bread machine’s manual for the correct procedures to ensure the yeast activates properly and the bread turns out well.
  5. Make sure your yeast is fresh and has been stored correctly. Old yeast can result in flat or dense bread.
  6. You can add ingredients like herbs, cheese, or seeds for extra flavor. Add these extras during the last few minutes of the kneading cycle or use the “Add-In” feature if available.
  7. Only open the bread machine lid during the kneading phase. Avoid opening it during the proofing stage, as this can affect the dough’s rise.
  8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing to set the texture and avoid fogginess.
  9. Keep the cooled bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze the bread, thawing as needed.
  10. Use bread flour for a sturdier loaf Bread-making takes time.
  11. This recipe is designed for 2 lb capacity bread machines and unsuitable for smaller machines. Please verify the capacity of your bread machine before starting this recipe.
  12. If your bread machine only accommodates 1 lb loaves, this recipe will not work. The dough will exceed the pan’s capacity, potentially causing overflow and collapsing the top of the loaf.
  13. Transform your soft, fresh bread into a variety of delicious dishes! You can make scrumptious toast by topping it with cream cheese, butter, jam, avocado, or goat cheese, or use it for classic sandwiches like BLTs or turkey clubs. This bread also shines as the base for mouthwatering grilled sandwiches and even for french toast. 

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 429mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 160IU | Vitamin C: 0.004mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 0.4mg
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