Crusty White Bread
Crusty white bread with a tender interior and golden crust, perfect for sandwiches or as a side, suited for homemade bread enthusiasts and casual bakers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour and yeast.
- Add water, cooking oil, sugar, and salt to dry mixture.
- Beat at low speed of electric mixer for 1/2 minute, scraping sides of the bowl constantly.
- Beat 3 minutes at high speed.
- By hand, stir in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam. If you prefer whole grain, substitute half of the plain flour with whole wheat flour. Ensure your water is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. This bread works well for sandwiches, but you can also use it for dipping in recipes like Velveeta And Tomato Fondue.
Serving Suggestions
This crusty white bread is perfect for toast, sandwiches, or alongside soups and salads. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Ugly Salad or can be served with a generous spread of Apple-Pumpkin Butter for breakfast. For a hearty meal, consider serving it with a warm bowl of stew or chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crusty white bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh, warm crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty White Bread contains roughly 64 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 703mg per serving (31% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you can skip the proofing step; just mix it directly with the flour. Instant yeast may give you a slightly quicker rise, so keep an eye on the dough.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a moderately stiff consistency. Avoid adding too much flour at once, as this can lead to a denser bread. The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable.
How can I tell when my bread is done baking?
To check if your bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Alternatively, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach approximately 190°F (88°C) for fully baked bread. Golden-brown crust is also a good sign.
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).