Batter White Bread
A classic white bread with a soft, tender crumb and a slightly crisp crust, perfect for sandwiches or toast. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned bread enthusiasts seeking warm, homemade bread with comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle yeast into warm water; let stand a few minutes then stir until dissolved.
- Add 3 1/4 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and shortening to the yeast mixture.
- Blend at low speed, then beat 2 minutes at medium speed or beat by hand.
- Beat in remaining flour by hand.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.
- Stir batter, beating hard for 30 seconds.
- Divide the batter evenly into 2 greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pans.
- Let rise until doubled in size, about 20 minutes.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your water is warm but not hot, around 110°F (43°C), to activate the yeast properly. If you don’t have shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of honey or malt syrup. Kneading the dough well will help create a better structure, so ensure it's well mixed before the first rise.
Serving Suggestions
This batter white bread is perfect for sandwiches or toasted with butter and jam for breakfast. Pair it with hearty soups or salads for a complete meal. For a delightful addition, serve it alongside a bowl of Sweet Potato Bake. You can also slice it thin for canapés topped with spreads or cheeses for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Batter White Bread contains roughly 708 calories, with 40g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser bread. For best results, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain a lighter texture while adding some nutritional value.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or inadequate warmth. Make sure the yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is correct. If the dough is still not rising, try placing it in a warmer area or using the oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
Can I make this bread in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and letting it rise again. This method can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).